‘Britain’s Got Talent’ Star Chantel Bellew Dies at 34

Britain’s Got Talent fans are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Chantel Bellew, the dazzling tap dancer who made a splash in series 13 back in 2019. Chantel sadly died at the age of 34, with her close friend Daniel McErlean confirming she passed away on 22 March, surrounded by loved ones, reported the Daily Mail.

Chantel, who was just 28 when she appeared on BGT, stole the spotlight with her energetic tap routine, which had even Ant and Dec doing a double take. In the performance, uploaded to her Facebook, she stood confidently on stage flanked by dancers in military getup—before dramatically revealing a Union Jack bodysuit under her costume. Classic BGT drama, and she totally owned it.

She also shared a sweet moment on social media with Strictly Come Dancing’s Anton Du Beke, showing him a few tap steps—because that was just Chantel through and through. Tap dancing wasn’t just a hobby, it was her life.

Following her passing, a GoFundMe page was set up by her loved ones to cover funeral costs and support the mental health charity Mind in her memory. In the tribute, she was described as “a kind, loving, and passionate spirit who brought joy and laughter to so many.” “Chantel was a talent second to none,” Daniel wrote. “The life and soul of every party. A character nobody will ever forget.”

Tributes have flooded in from across the entertainment world. Katy Glover, a close friend, shared heartfelt words, remembering Chantel as a “whirlwind” of energy, glamour, and positivity. “She lived and breathed showbiz,” she said. “She was the best tapper out there—one of a kind, sparkly and loyal.”

Stephen Mear, who directed her in the Paris production of 42nd Street, was visibly shaken by the news. “This has really shocked me. One of the best tappers I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with,” he said.

Others from the stage world echoed the sentiment. Co-star Hannah Stearne wrote, “You were the life and light in every room… the world has lost one of the best souls.” TV presenter Luis Elkes called her his best friend and said life would never be the same without her.

Chantel had been living in Widnes, Cheshire, where she passed on her skills by teaching dance and singing. Her presence, both on and off the stage, clearly left a lasting mark. She was bold, brilliant, and beaming with life—and it’s clear she’ll never be forgotten.