His strength, warmth and sparkle was with him to the end

Family's tribute to inspiring TV dance star

- BY MICHAEL O'TOOLE

TRIBUTES have poured in for ex-Dancing With The Stars judge Julian Benson, with the show's boss stating: "The world has lost a bit of its sparkle."

The much-loved dancer, choreographer and talent agent passed away yesterday at the age of 54.

He had been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis from an early age and received a kidney transplant in October last year.

His family said he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family and closest friends after a courageous battle with the disease. They added in a statement: "His strength, warmth, and sparkle remained with him until the very end."

Julian became a household name in 2017 when he joined the judging panel on RTE's Dancing With The Stars.

FAVOURITE

He was affectionately known as Captain Sparkle for his trademark custom-made jackets and quickly became a show favourite.

The family said yesterday: "He will be remembered not only for his quick witty one-liners but also for his unwavering kindness and encouragement towards the contestants." Julian's loved ones told how he had been diagnosed with CF at the age of just two - but rather than let the challenge define him, he decided to embrace life.