Driving Home For Christmas singer Chris Rea dies at 74

His famous song Driving Home For Christmas was first released in 1986
Driving Home For Christmas singer Chris Rea dies at 74

Chris Rea (Michael Stephens/PA)

Mon, 22 Dec, 2025 - 15:03
Kerri-Ann Roper

Singer Chris Rea, whose songs include the festive hit Driving Home For Christmas, has died at the age of 74, a spokesperson for his family said.

The musician was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and had his pancreas removed in 2001, and in 2016 he suffered a stroke.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Subscribe to access all of the Irish Examiner.

Annual €130 €80

Best value

Monthly €12€6 / month

Benefit image

More in this section

'I can't get no sleep': Sister Bliss of Faithless on 30 years of Insomnia  'I can't get no sleep': Sister Bliss of Faithless on 30 years of Insomnia 
Stuart Bailie: 'The wanker who started Blur versus Oasis' Stuart Bailie: 'The wanker who started Blur versus Oasis'
Full lineup for new series of Dancing with the Stars revealed Full lineup for new series of Dancing with the Stars revealed
Rea#Irish Examiner InstagramPlace: UKPlace: North East
<p>Lisa O'Neill on stage with Spider Stacy at Vicar Street, Dublin. </p>

Lisa O'Neill review: Cavan singer closes the year with superb gig at Vicar Street 

READ NOW

Scene & Heard

Newsletter

Music, film art, culture, books and more from Munster and beyond.......curated weekly by the Irish Examiner Arts Editor.

Latest

Scene & Heard

Newsletter

Music, film art, culture, books and more from Munster and beyond.......curated weekly by the Irish Examiner Arts Editor.

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited