Comedy icon Jools Topp has sadly died from breast cancer after she and her co-star twin sister received the same tragic diagnosis. Best known as one half of the Topp Twins, who were famous for their comedy musical performances in New Zealand, Jools and her sister Lynda Topp were both told they had breast cancer in 2021.

Now Jools has sadly died at the age of 68. Her family confirmed that she passed away on Saturday (May 23) at home, surrounded by family – including her twin sister, their brother Bruce and “all her fur-babies”. A statement from Lynda said: “It is with deep sorrow and unimaginable grief we announce the passing of my beloved twin sister Jools.

“She lived bravely with breast cancer for 22 years. Now she is finally free to ride on Pegasus, her winged horse, and round up sheep again with our dad Peter and all her precious dogs.”

Her brother Bruce added: “Jools shared with me all the joy and love and special times that a brother needs. I will hold her in my heart forever."

Jools was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006, though the condition failed to be picked up on a mammogram. It took an ultrasound to find the cancer, and Jools underwent a mastectomy and chemotherapy, eventually going into remission.

However, in 2021 she was diagnosed again, alongside her sister Lynda.

Jools confirmed she was receiving palliative care in 2022, while Lynda underwent six months of chemotherapy.

Lynda said at the time: “We’re in sync... in not the greatest way, but we’re in sync. I want to live, we both do. This is a new beginning for Jools and me.