Bonnie Tyler, Welsh pop star behind 'Total Eclipse of the Heart,' dies at 75

Bonnie Tyler, the Welsh pop star whose string of hits — including "Total Eclipse of the Heart" and "Holding Out for a Hero" — defined the sound of the 1970s and '80s, has died at 75.

Tyler's official website announced Thursday that "it is with great sadness that we announce Bonnie has passed away in a hospital in Portugal."

In a statement posted on social media, her family said Tyler "passed away suddenly in the Portuguese hospital where she had been admitted. The whole family and team are deeply saddened."

According to The New York Times and other outlets, Tyler underwent emergency intestinal surgery in May at her home in Portugal, briefly fell into a coma, and had been receiving treatment in intensive care even after regaining consciousness.

Born in Wales in 1951, Tyler began her career performing at local clubs before breaking through with "Lost in France," a track from her 1977 debut album "The World Starts Tonight." That same year, "It's a Heartache" reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.

She became particularly beloved for the raw, powerful vocal quality she developed after throat surgery in 1977.

"Total Eclipse of the Heart," released in 1983, topped both the UK Singles Chart and the US Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the best-selling singles of its era. "Holding Out for a Hero," featured on the soundtrack of the 1984 film "Footloose," also became one of her signature songs.

Tyler received three Grammy nominations and represented the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2013. In 2023, she was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

Tyler had a connection with South Korea, performing there for the first time in 1979 and returning for a joint concert in 2012.