What was Chris Rea famous for?

Chris Rea was famous for his hit songs, most notably 'Driving Home For Christmas', 'Fool (If You Think It's Over)', and 'The Road To Hell'.

How old was Chris Rea when he died?

Chris Rea was 74 years old when he passed away.

What illness did Chris Rea have?

Chris Rea passed away peacefully following a short illness. He had previously battled pancreatic cancer and suffered a stroke.

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Chris Rea Dead at 74 After Short Illness

22 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Chris Rea, known for 'Driving Home For Christmas', has died at 74.
He passed away peacefully in hospital following a short illness.
Rea battled pancreatic cancer and suffered a stroke in recent years.

Chris Rea Dead at 74 After Short Illness

The music world is mourning the loss of Chris Rea, who has died at the age of 74. A statement from his family confirmed that the singer, renowned for hits like 'Driving Home For Christmas' and 'The Road To Hell', passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today following a short illness.

Rea, born in Middlesbrough, achieved significant success throughout his career. His albums 'The Road To Hell' and 'Auberge' both topped the UK charts. He was first diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2001, leading to the removal of his pancreas, and later suffered a stroke in 2016.

His enduring hit, 'Driving Home For Christmas', first released in 1986, continued to chart in recent years, demonstrating its lasting popularity. Rea's debut album, 'Whatever Happened To Benny Santini?', was released in 1978, and his track 'Fool (If You Think It's Over)' earned a Grammy nomination.