Singer and The Voice alum Dean Franklin has died at just 36, only eight weeks after being diagnosed with esophageal cancer.
Franklin, a London-based musician and beloved street performer, appeared on the hit singing competition in 2016. During his run on the show, he was mentored by Paloma Faith, and quickly won over viewers with his raw vocals and emotional performances.
In mid-December, Franklin revealed that he had been diagnosed with stage four cancer and was beginning an aggressive round of chemotherapy. In heartbreaking updates shared with fans, he later disclosed that the cancer had spread to his lymph nodes and liver, and that the disease was not curable.
Despite his rapidly declining health, Franklin remained determined to perform. In January, he took to the streets of London one last time, announcing a final busking performance at Piccadilly Circus — a place closely tied to his identity as a street artist and advocate for buskers’ rights.
On Monday, February 9, Franklin’s mother, Marie, confirmed his death in an emotional Facebook post, revealing he passed away the night before — just eight and a half weeks after his diagnosis.
“As a family we are truly heartbroken to announce that our precious boy who fought so courageously over 8 weeks and 3 days passed over at 21:39 last night,” she wrote. “He was surrounded by love.”
She added that the family would share more when they were able, thanking supporters for the overwhelming love shown to her son during his final weeks.
Since announcing his diagnosis, Franklin had openly documented his cancer journey for more than 30,000 Instagram followers, offering honest updates and words of encouragement. His bravery drew support from across the music and television world, including his former mentor Paloma Faith, who commented, “You are so brave,” and Emma Willis, who wrote, “Sending you so much love Dean.”
Footage from Franklin’s final street performance shows him surrounded by a packed crowd as he sang Hallelujah through tears. At one point, he told the audience, “I really hope and pray this is not the last time,” as someone in the crowd shouted, “Look at what one human being can do!”
Franklin’s final video was shared on January 30 from palliative care, where he urged fans to listen to their bodies and seek medical attention if something feels wrong.
He is survived by his 17-year-old daughter.
He now sings for the Lord!