Tributes have been paid to former Dancing With The Stars judge Julian Benson, who passed away in Dublin on Saturday morning. The dancer, choreographer and talent agent was aged just 54.
He had been diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis from an early age and had received a kidney transplant in October last year.
His family said he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family and closest friends, after a courageous battle with Cystic Fibrosis.
“His strength, warmth, and sparkle remained with him until the very end,” the family said in a statement.
Mr Benson became a household name in 2017 when he joined the judging panel on RTÉ’s Dancing with the Stars.
He was affectionately known as Captain Sparkle for his trademark sparkly, custom-made jackets and quickly became a show favourite.
The family said in a statement: “He will be remembered not only for his quick witty one-liners but also for his unwavering kindness and encouragement towards the contestants.”
And the family statement also said that he had been diagnosed with CF at the age of just two – but rather than let the challenge define him, he decided to embrace life.
The family said: “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.”
Mr Benson kept his condition secret for over 40 years – and only revealed in 2018 when he told Ryan Tubridy on RTE’s Late Late Show: “I have Cystic Fibrosis, but Cystic Fibrosis doesn’t have me.”
The same night, he announced the birth of the Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (JBCFF) – set up to help other people with the condition. That included setting up Tranquility House in south Dublin for other people with CF, a project which featured on RTE’s Room to Improve with Dermot Bannon earlier this year.
“Julian’s mission was always clear: to provide vital support and services to CF warriors and their families, including a home from home while their loved ones receive treatment in hospital,” his family said.
“His dream became a reality with the opening of Tranquility House – a space where families can find comfort and peace during difficult times.
“This extraordinary achievement was made possible by the generosity of over 130 companies and individuals who believed in Julian’s vision.
“The remarkable transformation of Tranquility House, featured on Room to Improve in January of this year, is a testament to the power of community and to Julian’s unyielding determination.”
Larry Bass, head of ShinAwil Productions that is behind Dancing With Stars, also paid tribute to Mr Benson.
He said: “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 thanks to his constant effort to better the lives of people around him, especially with the creation of the Julian Benson CF Foundation - 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.”
Broadcaster Maia Dunphy said she was devastated by the death of Mr Benson.
She said: “Julian was one of the kindest people you could ever meet, and he defied the odds in many ways.
“I’m so glad he got to see his Tranquility House finished, but this is such a huge loss. Thinking of his family today.”
Golfer Sharon Smurfit said: “So sad to hear of Julian’s passing. A wonderful person and passionate about helping others.
“He will be missed by so many. Rest In Peace Julian - you’ll be dancing in the stars now."
Actor Rory Cowan said: “I am so sorry to hear this sad news. Julian Benson was one of the most positive people I’ve ever met.
“He was such a bubbly and joyful character. When you’d see him you’d just smile. And he knew how to throw a party. I was at his Cystic Fibrosis charity ball a few years ago (when I bought a guitar donated by Niall Horan) and it was a fabulous night.
"Julian Benson was a one-off. A real original.”
And RTE presenter James Patrice said: “So very sorry to hear of the passing of the incredible Julian Benson.
“An utter gentleman who was an absolute dynamo on Dancing With The Stars.
“It was an honour to know him and see the incredible work that he achieved in a life that was so beautifully lived.”
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