We are sending our deepest condolences to family and friends of beloved author Sophie Kinsella whose death was announced today.
The bestselling writer was diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumour at the end of 2022 – an aggressive form of brain cancer that comes with a poor prognosis of just 12 to 18 months. Sophie waited until April 2024 to share her diagnosis publicly, to allow her children, the youngest of whom were just 12 and 10, time to “process the news in privacy and adapt to our ‘new normal’”.
The mother of five underwent surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, outliving her prognosis to raise awareness of brain cancer and the importance of research, bringing hope to so many.
Today, her family shared news of her passing, aged 55, on social media: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing this morning of our beloved Sophie (aka Maddy, aka Mummy). She died peacefully, with her final days filled with her true loves: family and music and warmth and Christmas and joy.”
Having penned such hits as the hugely popular Shopaholic series, which spawned a film, her books sold more than 50 million copies and have been translated into more than 40 languages.
Following her diagnosis, Sophie used her platform to shine a light on this devastating disease and reach millions with the power of her words. Her last novel, What Does It Feel Like?, a New York Times ‘Notable Book’, is the “unforgettable” story of a renowned novelist facing a devastating diagnosis and learning to live and love anew.
Sophie said: “What Does It Feel Like? is fiction but it is my most autobiographical work to date. Eve’s story is my story. Writing is my happy place, and writing this book, although tough going at times, was immensely satisfying and therapeutic for me.”
Dan Knowles, CEO at Brain Tumour Research, said: “Our heartfelt condolences go to Sophie's family, friends and her many fans. Too many people know the devastation of this dreadfully cruel disease. While we pause to reflect on those lost to and those living with a brain tumour, we renew our drive and determination to find a cure for this disease.”
Our thoughts are with all who knew and loved Sophie, an enormous talent who will be forever missed.
