Former Dancing with the Stars judge Julian Benson dead at 54 as tributes pour in

Former Dancing With The Stars judge Julian Benson has passed away aged 54 after battling chronic genetic disorder, . His heartbroken family confirmed the sad news in a statement. It read: "It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Julian Benson. Julian passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family and closest friends, after a courageous battle with Cystic Fibrosis. His strength, warmth, and sparkle remained with him until the very end.

"A talent agent, dancer, and choreographer, Julian became a household name in 2017 when he joined the judging panel on RTÉ's Dancing with the Stars. Affectionately known as Captain Sparkle for his trademark sparkly, custom-made jackets, he quickly became a show favourite.

"He will be remembered not only for his quick witty one-liners but also for his unwavering kindness and encouragement towards the contestants. Julian was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at the age of two. But rather than let this challenge define him, Julian decided to embrace life fully. He began dancing at the age of four and embarked on a professional career at just 14 - an incredible achievement for anyone, let alone someone living with a chronic lung condition. His determination and passion became the driving force behind everything he did."

The statement continued: "For over 40 years, Julian kept his diagnosis private. It was only in 2018, during an emotional appearance on The Late Late Show with Ryan Tubridy, that he revealed his lifelong illness and shared his dream of creating a charity to support the CF community. That night, he announced the birth of the Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (JBCFF) and said: "I have Cystic Fibrosis, but Cystic Fibrosis doesn't have me."

Northern Irish country music star Cliona Hagan, who appeared on the show in 2019, led the tributes. She wrote: "I am so saddened to hear of the passing of the wonderful Julian Benson. During my time on Dancing with the stars, I always looked forward to Julian's expressive commentary (and wardrobe choices which were INCREDIBLE - Lady Gaga eat your heart out) and ever since then we kept in touch! What a wonderful person he was to have known. My condolences to Julian's family may he rest in peace."

The production company behind Dancing with the Stars, ShinAwiL, also shared a statement. They posted: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our wonderful friend Julian Benson. Our very own Captain Sparkle who brought so much joy, brilliance and talent to the world. His attitude and outlook on life was ever inspiring and will continue to be so thanks to his constant effort to better the lives of people around him, especially with the creation of the @jbcffoundation - his legacy will live on forever. Julian was one of a kind and will be forever missed. The world lost a bit of sparkle today. May he rest in peace."

In another tribute, Dancing With The Stars judge Loraine Barry said: "Julian Benson was a beacon of joy and passion. Despite facing the challenges of cystic fibrosis from a young age, he lived with a heart full of love and an unyielding zest for life. His enthusiasm was truly contagious, inspiring everyone around him to embrace life with love and gratitude. Julian's spirit reminds us all to find joy in every moment and to live life to the fullest. His legacy of warmth and kindness will forever remain in our hearts. I was so lucky to meet and spend time with him. There was never a dull moment only laughter. . . Rest in peace my beautiful friend."

singer Nicky Byrne wrote on Instagram: "Such sad news. A finer gentleman you'll ever meet. The world has lost one of the great ones today, while upstairs has just received a lot more Love & Sparkle. Fly high, Jules." Irish model Rosanna Davison also shared her heartbreak. She wrote: "He was such a brave, kind, encouraging, fun and colourful person and had a huge impact on those of us lucky enough to work with him and call him a friend.

"I first met Julian way back in 2002, when he cast me in the UCD 2003 Fashion Show. He was a talented choreographer and producer, an inspiring teacher and gave me and all involved such confidence on stage. It's hard to even express the positive impact he had, the encouragement he gave us and the enthusiasm he showed. Julian will be sadly missed by so many of us. Sending all my love to his family and friends. Rest in peace, Julian."