Britain’s Got Talent star Will Read dies aged 51 -Kitty Chrisp-Entertainment – Metro

Will Read – who took part in the 2012 series of Britain’s Got Talent – has died at the age of 51 (Picture: Facebook)

Britain’s Got Talent star Will Read – who performed in the 2012 final alongside David Walliams – has died at the age of 51.

As part of comedy act The Showbears Read got through to the live semi-finals of the 2012 competition, and performed alongside the former judge in a surprise guest act at that year’s final.

He died of cancer at home on August 7 with his friend and brother by his side.

The singer’s obituary notice reads: ‘Will aged 51 years of Macclesfield, peacefully passed away on Wednesday 7th August 2024.

‘Dearly loved son of Kate, much loved brother of Tom, cherished brother in law of Marianne and fabulous uncle of Jimmy and Liam.

‘Will was an accomplished musician excelling in percussion, drum and vocals. He toured with Gloria Estefan and cruised the world as a musical director in his successful career.

Read and his group The Showbears got through to the semi-finals (Picture: Shutterstock)

‘He will be greatly missed by all his family, many friends and colleagues.

‘A private family service has taken place, a Celebration of Will’s Life will occur, time and date to be advised.

‘Donations in his memory may be sent for The Christie (Macclesfield) or Macmillan Cancer Support.’

From an early age Read performed in a number of bands in Macclesfield while he was a student at Puss Bank Junior School.

By the time he was a teenager, Read had teamed up with his older brother Tom and his father Roger gigging regularly and he went on to perform alongside well-known bands.

David Walliams performed alongside the act in the final, which they returned to the show for (Picture: Facebook)

These include local acts such as Take Five, Arthur Wakefield, Ronnie Darlington, Joint Effort, Grapevine, Manatees and Butterfly Jam. 

On Britain’s Got Talent, The Showbears’ glittery suits stole the show and Read went on to join Estefan’s band in her European Tour which travelled to countries including Belgium and Switzerland.

He then became the musical director on Sun Cruises and performed as a drummer on the MV Seawing while travelling the world.

On his return home, Read joined the East Cheshire Council as a care assessor and tutored musicians, as well as recording music from home.

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