The British music world is in mourning following the death of singer-songwriter Chris Rea at the age of 74. A spokesperson for his family confirmed the beloved artist passed away in hospital on 22 December 2025 after a short illness.
A Musical Journey from Middlesbrough to Global Fame
Chris Rea, born in Middlesbrough, rose to prominence in the late 1970s and 1980s with a string of chart successes. His debut album, Whatever Happened To Benny Santini?, was released in 1978. The name was a nod to the stage name his record label initially wanted him to adopt.
The track 'Fool (If You Think It's Over)' from that album became an instant classic, even earning a Grammy nomination and cementing his early success. After a quieter period, Rea stormed back into the public eye with his eighth album, On The Beach in 1986, which featured the hit single of the same name.
The Road to Lasting Legacy and Health Battles
It was the 1989 release of 'The Road To Hell' that catapulted Rea to the status of one of the UK's biggest solo stars. The album, along with its 1991 follow-up Auberge, both reached number one in the UK charts, securing him a devoted, predominantly male fanbase.
Behind the scenes, Rea faced significant health challenges. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2001 and underwent major surgery to have the organ removed. Later, in 2016, he suffered a stroke. His family's statement confirmed his passing was following a short illness.
An Enduring Festive Anthem
While Rea's catalogue is rich and varied, he will perhaps be most fondly remembered for creating one of the nation's favourite festive songs. 'Driving Home for Christmas', first released in 1986, has become a timeless holiday staple. Its enduring popularity was recently highlighted by its feature in the 2025 Marks & Spencer Food Christmas television advertisement.
The statement from his family, released to the Press Association, read: "It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Chris. He passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today following a short illness, surrounded by his family." He is survived by his wife and two children.
The passing of Chris Rea marks the loss of a distinctive voice in British music, a gifted guitarist and songwriter whose work, from rock anthems to festive joy, will continue to resonate for generations to come.
