Andrew Lloyd Webber has announced the tragic passing of his eldest son, Nick. The heartbreaking news comes after the famed playwright confirmed earlier this week that Nick - who was just 43 - has been moved into a hospice amid his battle with gastric cancer. He received the devastating diagnosis 18 months ago. Now, the 75-year-old father has taken to Twitter to announce that Nick passed away on Saturday (March 25). "I am shattered to have to announce that my beloved elder son Nick died a few hours ago in Basingstoke Hospital," Lloyd Webber wrote. "His whole family is gathered together and we are all totally bereft." [[twitterwidget||https://twitter.com/OfficialALW/status/1639709972790386693]] Earlier this week, Lloyd Webber took to Instagram to share that he wouldn't be able to support the cast of Bad Cinderella in person on their opening night in New York City, as he was remaining in England in order to be close to Nick. In his video, the legendary playwright revealed that Nick had just got over "the worst of this first bout of pneumonia he's got as a result of his cancer". The doting father added that he would "pass on all of the fantastic wishes" from supporters. Nicholas "Nick" Lloyd Webber followed in his father's footsteps as a talented composer, working on projects such as The Little Prince and his dad's Symphonic Suites. Following the news of his heartbreaking passing, many stars and fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to the composer and record producer. Commenting on dad Andrew's Instagram post, Pussycat Doll star Nicole Scherzinger wrote: "My heart breaks for you and your family. I am so so sorry Andrew. Sending my love and prayers." Fellow playwright and composer Lin-Manuel Miranda added: "Our whole family mourns with you, Andrew. Sending you love and peace." Bad Cinderella star Linedy Genao commented: "I am so sorry, Andrew. [...] My deepest condolences to you and your family. Sending you all of our love and prayers." Over on Twitter, singer and actor Bonnie Langford replied: "I’m so terribly sorry. Such sad news. Sending love and strength." Soap star Shona McGarty added: "So sorry. I’m Praying for you and your family at such a difficult time." And famed singer and actor Michael Ball tweeted: "Heartbroken to hear the news of Nick Lloyd Webber passing tonight. A beautiful, kind, funny and talented young man and my love and prayers go out to his mum and dad, his wife and all his family. A genuine tragedy that should make us all stop and think and count our blessings" Our thoughts go out to Nick's family, friends, and fans at this time. <h6>Featured image credit: PA Images / Alamy</h6>

'Shattered' Andrew Lloyd Webber confirms his eldest son Nick has died

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