Britain’s Got Talent star Allan Finnegan dies aged 59 after cancer battle

Britain’s Got Talent star Allan Finnegan has died at the age of 59 following a four-year battle with cancer.

The comedian and Baptist minister passed away on Friday, June 19, after being diagnosed with rare eye cancer that later spread to his liver.

Finnegan’s family confirmed his death in a statement, revealing that he died surrounded by his wife and daughters. They described him as an “amazing, caring and funny” man and shared that they were grateful for the memories they created together.

Finnegan was diagnosed with ocular melanoma in 2022 after experiencing flashes of light in his vision. Doctors discovered tumours in both eyes, which were later removed. However, he was eventually told the cancer had spread to his liver and was no longer operable. Despite being given a limited life expectancy in 2024, he continued to fight until 2026.

The star became widely recognised after appearing on Britain’s Got Talent in 2020, where he performed stand-up comedy while wearing his dog collar as a Baptist minister. His jokes about church life impressed judges Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon, Amanda Holden and David Walliams, helping him reach the semi-finals.

Following his diagnosis, Finnegan released his memoir I Didn’t Ask For Any Of This: Church, Comedy and Cancer, sharing his journey from ministry to comedy and his experience living with cancer.

Fans and supporters have paid tribute to the beloved BGT contestant, remembering him for his humour, kindness and inspiring attitude.