Andrew Lloyd Webber, the renowned composer of iconic musicals such as Cats, The Phantom of the Opera, and Jesus Christ Superstar, has announced that his eldest son Nicholas is battling gastric cancer and is currently in a hospice. The 75-year-old Lloyd Webber has expressed gratitude to the people of Ukraine, who sent him a Cats t-shirt upon hearing the news that his son was critically ill. Nicholas, 43, is also a composer in his own right, having scored music for an adaptation of The Little Prince and earning a Grammy nomination for his work on Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella.
In a video message on Instagram, Lloyd Webber expressed his love and support for his son, stating that Nicholas is “over the worst of this first bout of pneumonia” but is still fighting his gastric cancer. He noted that his family has gathered around Nicholas at the hospice, which he believes is the right place for them to be at this time. Lloyd Webber also took a moment to express his appreciation for the people of Ukraine, who have been going through a difficult time themselves, and commended them for their thoughtful gestures towards Nicholas.
Andrew Lloyd Webber (Via Andrew Lloyd Webber/Twitter)
Despite his own family’s struggles, Lloyd Webber has also offered his best wishes to the other families in the theatre community who are experiencing the opening night of his new show Bad Cinderella in New York. He explained that, although he is disappointed to not be able to attend the show himself, he believes his presence is needed in England at the moment to be with his family. The show, a retooled version of the London West End’s Cinderella, features new songs and a leading lady and title character.
Lloyd Webber’s generosity and humanity are evident in his response to the challenges his son is facing. His willingness to put his own personal needs aside in order to be with his family during this difficult time is a testament to his love and commitment to them. The outpouring of support from fans and colleagues around the world is a welcome reminder of the power of community and compassion in the face of adversity.
