The Wanted star Tom Parker has died at the age of 33 after being diagnosed with terminal brain cancer.
The singer told fans in October 2021 that he had not wanted to know the prognosis of his cancer when he was first diagnosed with an inoperable and terminal tumour in 2020 so he could try and live the rest of his life without fear.
Appearing on This Morning alongside his wife Kelsey Hardwick in October last year, Tom detailed the treatment he received, calling it “severe and tough”.
Co-hosts Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield asked the boyband star about his prospects for the future, to which the 33-year-old said he was feeling “very positive” and felt “more confident and in control” of his emotions.
Tom said that he received the diagnosis alone as it was in the midst of Covid-19 restrictions and said that when doctors brought up the prognosis, he was reluctant to know the details.
He told Holly and Phil: “I said to them I don't really want a prognosis. For me, I know what the statistics are of this disease. I just didn't want to hear it.”
His wife Kelsey added: “Also, we've positive vibes only. I was like, we're not getting a prognosis. No one can tell you how long you've got left. Let's just get on with this. Let's fight this.”
Tom added: “They gave us 12 months at that point and we're way past that.”
The pair aimed to raise awareness for the lack of funding for those with brain tumours and explained that they had been paying for treatment privately.
Kelsey reiterated that "the standard of care hasn't changed for 30 years" for those with brain tumours and that they had resorted to doing things privately.
"There needs to be more [help] in the NHS," she said.
When the couple appeared on This Morning in October, they said Tom’s tumour had shrunk and was stable.
Kelsey posted confirmation of Tom’s death on Instagram today, writing: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we confirm Tom passed away peacefully earlier today with all of his family by his side. Our hearts are broken.
"Tom was the centre of our world and we can’t imagine life without his infectious smile and energetic presence.
"We are truly thankful for the outpouring of love and support and ask that we all unite to ensure Tom’s light continues to shine for his beautiful children.
"Thank you to everyone who has supported in his care throughout, he fought until the very end. I’m forever proud of you."
