Aussie rock singer and The Voice star Virginia Lillye has died at the age of 56 after a brave battle with ovarian cancer.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by children’s music advocate and singer Don Spencer, who paid tribute to Lillye in an emotional social media post.
“I am terribly saddened to hear that the beautiful Virginia Lillye has lost her battle with cancer,” Spencer wrote.
“Virginia was not only an amazing talent but one of the loveliest people you could meet. She performed many times to help raise funds for The Australian Children’s Music Foundation. She was an absolute showstopper. My deepest sympathy to Julian and her family. RIP Virginia.”
Lillye’s band also shared a moving message to their “queen”, calling her the “quintessential rock goddess”.
“There will never be another frontwoman like her,” they wrote. “We love you dearly and you will never be forgotten. Riposa in peace our sweet Vinny.”
Lillye rose to national fame on season nine of The Voice Australia in 2020, where her powerhouse vocals and raw energy won her a devoted following. Offstage, she was known for her warmth, generosity and tireless efforts to support charity events and young musicians.
Her life took a devastating turn in 2023 when she was diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer. She and her husband, Julian, had been holidaying in Israel when she began experiencing severe stomach pain. After returning to Sydney and seeking medical help, doctors delivered the shocking diagnosis.
In an interview at the time, Lillye spoke candidly about the disease she called “a sneaky cancer”.
“It’s a silent cancer that doesn’t make its appearance known until it’s stage three,” she said. “There needs to be more awareness. More funds need to be raised to help find earlier diagnosis.”
Despite several rounds of chemotherapy and ongoing complications, Lillye continued to share messages of hope and positivity throughout her treatment. Her strength and openness inspired countless fans and fellow musicians.
Virginia Lillye is remembered as a fearless performer, a kind soul, and a true rock icon, one whose light burned brightly and whose legacy will continue to inspire.
She is survived by her husband, Julian, and a legion of fans who will never forget her voice.
Images: Instagram