Bonnie Tyler, the Welsh singer renowned for her iconic hits such as “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” has been the subject of widespread concern and support following her hospitalization. The 74-year-old artist has been in an induced coma after suffering from a perforated intestine, which led to a severe infection. According to reports from Portuguese media, Tyler was rushed to a hospital near Faro, where she owns a home, for emergency surgery. A representative for the singer confirmed that she was placed in an induced coma last week to aid her recovery and that she is currently recuperating.
Despite initial progress, local Portuguese media reported that Tyler experienced a cardiac arrest when doctors attempted to wake her from the induced coma. According to Correio da Manha, she remains in the induced coma as medical teams work to manage the infection. A statement released on behalf of the singer on May 8 read: “Bonnie has been put into an induced coma by her doctors to aid her recovery.” The statement also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from fans and requested privacy during this challenging time. It added that further updates would be provided when available.
The spokesperson also acknowledged the outpouring of love and well wishes from Tyler’s fans, stating, “It truly means the world.” Tyler’s husband, Robert Sullivan, and longtime friend, Liberto Mealha, reportedly told Correio da Manha that her doctors are using high doses of antibiotics to control the infection. While they remain optimistic about her recovery, they emphasized that the situation is still serious.
Tyler’s guitarist, Ed Poole, addressed her condition on social media, expressing appreciation for the support she has received. He wrote, “All I can say is that myself and the rest of the band are hoping and praying that she pulls through.” Meanwhile, Gloria Gaynor, the singer behind the iconic disco track “I Will Survive,” wished Tyler a “swift recovery.”
Born Gaynor Hopkins, Tyler rose to global fame in 1983 with the release of “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” The song topped charts in both the UK and the US and earned her a Grammy nomination. Four decades later, the track surpassed one billion streams on Spotify in January, as a new generation of fans discovered it through platforms like TikTok.
Known for her voluminous blonde hair and distinctive gravelly voice, Tyler has created a string of hits, including “Holding Out for a Hero,” “If You Were A Woman (And I Was A Man),” and “It’s A Heartache.” In 2013, she represented the UK at the Eurovision Song Contest, finishing 19th out of 26 acts. She was later awarded an MBE for her contributions to music.
Tyler had recently announced a tour of Europe to celebrate the 50th anniversary of her 1976 track “Lost In France.” The Booklist is a weekly newsletter for book lovers from Jason Steger. Get it delivered every Friday.
