The funeral details for former Dancing With The Stars judge and beloved talent Julian Benson have been announced following his passing on April 18, 2025, at the age of 54. Benson, who had battled cystic fibrosis throughout his life, died peacefully at St. Vincent’s University Hospital in Dublin, surrounded by family and friends.
Known affectionately as "Captain Sparkle" for his trademark sparkly jackets, Benson's contributions to the arts and his advocacy for those with cystic fibrosis have left a lasting impact. His family expressed their deep sadness in a statement, saying, "Julian passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family and closest friends, after a courageous battle with Cystic Fibrosis. His strength, warmth, and sparkle remained with him until the very end."
Julian will repose at Fanagans Funeral Home on Aungier Street on Friday, April 25, 2025, from 5 PM to 7 PM, with all welcome to attend. A requiem mass will take place the following morning, Saturday, April 26, at 11 AM in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Donnybrook, followed by burial at Glasnevin Cemetery.
Born in Adelaide, Australia, Benson moved to Ireland at the age of 12. He was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis when he was just two years old, and despite the grim prognosis from doctors who told his mother Maura he would not live into his teens, he defied the odds. His journey included a kidney transplant last October, which provided him renewed energy.
Benson's public struggle with cystic fibrosis began in earnest in 2018, when he revealed his diagnosis during an emotional appearance on The Late Late Show with Ryan Tubridy. That night marked the birth of the Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (JBCFF), an organization dedicated to supporting individuals living with the condition. "I have Cystic Fibrosis, but Cystic Fibrosis doesn’t have me," he famously declared, showcasing his resilient spirit.
The foundation has been instrumental in developing Tranquility House on Grosvenor Road in Dublin, which provides accommodation for families of those receiving treatment for cystic fibrosis. His family noted that this project was made possible through the generosity of over 130 companies and individuals who supported his vision.
Julian's impact extended beyond his work with the foundation; he was also a well-respected talent agent, dancer, and choreographer. He gained widespread recognition in 2017 when he joined the judging panel of RTÉ’s Dancing With The Stars, where his vibrant personality and quick wit endeared him to audiences across Ireland.
In their statement, his family paid tribute to the medical teams that supported him throughout his life, saying, "The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all the care teams who helped Julian live a full and extraordinary life, particularly the incredible cystic fibrosis team at St. Vincent’s University Hospital, whose expertise and compassion supported Julian throughout his life; the transplant team at Beaumont Hospital, whose care gave Julian renewed energy and allowed him to see his dream realized; and the ICU team at St. Vincent’s, who cared for Julian with tenderness and kindness during his final days."
Julian is survived by his brother Adrian, sister-in-law Rachel, and his beloved nieces Leah and Ailbhe, and nephew Cian. His passing has left a significant void in the lives of his family, friends, and the many individuals who were touched by his kindness and advocacy.
As the community prepares to bid farewell to Julian Benson, many are encouraged to honor his memory by supporting the Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, continuing his legacy of compassion and support for those living with cystic fibrosis.
His family noted that Julian's legacy will live on in his dream project, Tranquility House, which remains a beacon of hope for families navigating the challenges of cystic fibrosis treatment. Julian's energy, passion, and joy for life will continue to inspire all who knew him, and his iconic catchphrase, "Cha Cha Boom!" will forever be synonymous with his vibrant spirit.
