Jane McDonald’s partner Ed Rothe has passed away following a private battle with lung cancer.
The singer, who shot to fame on late ’90s TV show ‘The Cruise’, took to social media to reveal the heartbreaking news, after the former The Searchers star was laid to rest on Wednesday (April 7) morning.
“It is with immense sadness that we share the news that Jane’s beloved life partner, Ed, passed away on Friday 26th March,” reads the statement. “He had been battling lung cancer for the last few months.
Announcement 1/2: It is with immense sadness that we share the news that Jane’s beloved long term partner, Ed, passed away on Friday 26th March. He had been battling lung cancer for the last few months. We would like to thank everyone for all their help and support… pic.twitter.com/yETN3ruHKA
— Jane McDonald (@TheJaneMcDonald) April 7, 2021
“We would like to thank everyone for all their help and support during this very difficult time, especially the NHS staff and the wonderful team at The Wakefield Hospice.
“The funeral took place earlier today and we would please ask for your kindness in observing Jane’s privacy for her and Ed’s family at this sad time.”
Ed was the former drummer of ’60s band The Searchers, but quit performing in 2010 after the couple became engaged. They previously dated in 1980 and reunited 28 years later, in 2008.