The death of X-Factor star Ben Tapa, 42, has been announced. Emotional condolences have been paid to the G4 opera star as his bandmates jointly released a heartbreaking statement.
Tragic X-Factor star Ben Tapa has died aged 42, devastated band G4 have announced.
Jonathan Ansell, Mike Christie and Matt Stiff, who hit number one in the UK charts with his boyfriend in 2005, spoke of their grief in a heartbreaking statement.
Tributes have poured in for the “great friend and amazing person” following the shocking news, but it is still unclear how he died. Ben left the group in 2018 but has continued to work musically and hoped to perform together again.
G4 posted two photos of the singer on Instagram, writing:
“Words cannot express how we all feel right now… We know this news is heartbreaking for so many others as well and we send our love and support as we all remember this great man and the memories he leaves behind.
“Ben was an important part of the international singing community and a vital part of our journey as a group. Thank you for the love during this difficult time. Rest in peace Ben xxxx,”
Fans flooded in to offer their condolences. One wrote: And such a lovely person. My thoughts are with all who knew him,” while another added: “A complete shock and truly heartbreaking for everyone who knew him. Love to you all. Rest in peace Ben X.”
Known for their operatic interpretations of pop songs, G4 narrowly missed out on winning The X Factor in 2004. Although Jonathan, Matthew and Ben did not win, they were offered a music deal by Sony after the show.
In 2005, the band released their self-titled debut album, which reached number six in the UK charts. Their second album, G4 & Friends, reached number six in the charts. In 2007, after the release of their third album, the group announced their breakup on GMTV.
The split was reportedly due to internal fighting. In 2014, the band reformed, but without Matthew, replaced by Nick Ashby. The band has remained active ever since, playing regular concerts and releasing albums.