06 April 2023 , 18:02
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John Lydon previously said that he couldn't envision life without her beloved wife Nora Forster, having mentioned the prospect in an interview just months before her death.
The singer-songwriter, 67 - who is best known for fronting punk band the Sex Pistols - had been the primary carer for his wife Nora, who had lived with Alzheimer's disease.
It's however sadly been announced this afternoon (April 6) that Nora has passed away, aged 80 - with the news having prompted messages of condolence from John's fans.
The performer - also known by his stage name Johnny Rotten - has yet to comment on his wife's passing, though he mentioned the prospect in an interview earlier this year.
It's been announced that John Lydon's wife Nora Forster has died, aged 80 (Getty Images North America)
The couple had been together for decades (Getty Images)He suggested to the Times earlier this year that losing Nora was unthinkable, reportedly in part because being her carer had begun to define him.
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He told the outlet in February: "It's shaped me into what I am. I don’t think I'll ever get over it. I don't see how I can live without her. I wouldn’t want to. There's no point."
The musician further commented at the time about his experience: "And, I'm sorry, but it's worth every moment. No joy comes without pain and, boy, do I know that now."
John had spoken about caring for his wife Nora on several occasions in recent months, including during an appearance on Good Morning Britain just a couple of months ago.
He commented back in January: "Oddly enough, as bad as Alzheimer's is, there are great moments of tenderness between us. [...] It's not all waiting for the Grim Reaper."
The performer further remarked on the ITV show that although Nora's communication skills were "letting her down" in later life, he could see "the personality in her eyes".
John had cared for Nora in recent years following her being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (Redferns)He also spoke about his wife during an interview on This Morning around the same time, in which he choked up when mentioning the life that his wife had given him.
Discussing caring for her, John said: "She requires 24/7 attention and I'm more than willing to give her that because the life she's given me, up til now, has been amazing".
It was announced that Nora had passed away in a statement shared through John's official Twitter account earlier this afternoon, alongside a photo of the couple.
A spokesperson wrote: "Rest in Peace Nora Forster. It is with a heavy heart that we share the sad news that Nora Forster - John Lydon's wife of nearly 5 decades - has passed away."
They continued: "Nora had been living with Alzheimer's for several years. In which time John had become her full time carer. Please respect John's grief and allow him space."
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The post - which prompted fans to express condolences - concluded by stating: "Rest in Peace Nora. Heart felt condolences to John from Rambo and all at PiL Official."