The Voice UK’ Star Dean Franklin Dies at 36, Seven Weeks After Shock Diagnosis
It moved with brutal speed, a life reframed in weeks, not years, and a final fight carried out in public view with quiet courage.
Dean Franklin, the singer who appeared on "The Voice UK" in 2016, has died aged 36, just eight weeks after being diagnosed with advanced cancer. His family confirmed the news late on Monday night, marking the end of a short, relentless battle that Franklin chose to face head-on.
His family shared the announcement in an emotional post, telling followers that her “precious boy” passed away at 9.39 p.m, surrounded by love. They said he had “fought so courageously over 8 weeks and 3 days” and asked for time before the family shared more, adding that the support shown to him had meant a lot.
Franklin first spoke publicly about his illness earlier this year, revealing he had been diagnosed with stage four oesophageal cancer. In a fundraiser set up to ease the financial strain of treatment, he described himself simply as “a musician, a dad,” focused on managing pain, continuing music, and protecting his daughter’s future.
In an update shared on January 8, Franklin told supporters that chemotherapy had initially been delayed after he developed a high temperature, requiring an overnight stay in hospital for IV antibiotics.
When treatment finally began the following day, he said he was “surrounded by love, strength, and the people who keep me going”, adding his thanks for the donations and messages of support, which he said he was still finding the strength to answer individually.
Throughout his illness, Franklin continued to keep fans closely informed, often posting Facebook Reels after appointments with his oncologist to explain where things stood and to thank people for standing by him.
While chemotherapy was not curative, Franklin chose to go ahead with treatment to buy time and explore further options. He also spoke of plans for a final busking performance in London, describing it as a moment of connection and gratitude.
On January 25, Franklin shared a stark update with fans. He said doctors had offered him two choices, move into hospice care and prepare for his final weeks, or risk another round of chemotherapy in the hope it could shrink tumours blocking his bile ducts.
He thanked his family, friends, and supporters for carrying him through a very rough few days. He added:
“I chose to keep fighting."
Days earlier, he had posted a video revisiting his time on "The Voice UK," showing judges reacting to his performance and scenes from behind the scenes. Overlay text explained that his life had changed forever just a month earlier, as he faced what he described as a new battle.
Following news of his death, tributes flooded social media from fans and fellow musicians. One wrote, “Can’t believe your gone you brought so much happiness to a lot of ppl R.I.P thoughts to your friends and family.[sic]" Another added, “Rest in peace Dean you will be missed so much. A lovely lad with a beautiful voice. God proves he takes the best first[sic]."
Another tribute, shared by a close friend and fellow musician, remembered Franklin as hugely talented, endlessly funny, and full of life, recalling years of shared gigs, trips around the country, and moments of laughter, adding that despite his doubts, “you did alright kid."
Dean Franklin leaves behind his family, his music, and a legacy defined by honesty, determination, and love.