A new West End stage production based on the life of the late Cilla Black was in the early stages of development prior to the entertainer’s death, the star’s PR has confirmed.
The much-loved singer and Blind Date host had given her blessing to the project prior to her untimely passing earlier in the month.
According to a press statement released today, Black was said to be “thrilled and excited” about her life being portrayed on the London stage and was looking forward to the production’s development.
Her son Robert Willis, who also worked as the entertainment icon’s manager, had been in continuous talks with a West End producer, but following Black’s tragic death on 1 August plans have now been put on hold.
Born in 1943, Black began her music career in the 1960s when two of her hits – Anyone Who Had A Heart and You’re My World – both topped the UK charts. As well as hosting her own variety show, Cilla, Black became well-known as the host of ITV’s match-making game show Blind Date and the channel’s wish-granting show Surprise Surprise.
The 72-year-old entertainer died after suffering a fall at her Spanish home.