Vicky Michelle fought back tears live on Good Morning Britain as she paid a heartfelt tribute to Linda Nolan following her death from cancer aged 65.

The actress, 74, appeared on the ITV show during Thursday’s installment as she dubbed the songstress ‘strong and inspiring’. 

Irish singer and television star, Linda, died on Wednesday aged 65 after living with cancer on and off for 20 years.

Chatting to hosts Ed Balls and Kate Garraway, Vicky paid a sweet tribute to Linda as she reflected on her caring nature. 

She said: ‘She was positive, she was caring, she was kind. And she never gave into it and she inspired a lot of others not to. And I think that is why she survived for so long. It was her positivity. 

‘I think it was the driving force and is what kept her with us.  And it was such a shock. Because I didn’t think she would ever go. I thought she would get through this. And this was 20 years ago.’    

Vicky Michelle fought back tears live on Good Morning Britain as she paid a heartfelt tribute to ‘strong and inspiring’ Linda Nolan following her death from cancer aged 65

The actress, 74, appeared on the ITV show during Thursday’s installment as she dubbed the songstress (pictured) ‘strong and inspiring’

Linda was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, before being given the all clear in 2011.

But in 2017 she was informed by doctors she had secondary breast cancer, and in 2023 told fans of its return after tumours were detected on her brain.

Just last week the former Nolans star wrote in the Mirror that she was beginning to feel better after contracting pneumonia, but two days later she was rushed to hospital with breathing problems.

Following her death tributes have poured in for the star, including from her sister and Loose Women presenter Coleen Nolan.

Linda had heartbreakingly planned her own funeral in the years before her death, right down to her glittery pink coffin.

As one of six sisters, Linda rose to fame in the 1970s in a group with sisters Bernie, Coleen and Maurine.

After their hit song I’m In The Mood For Dancing in 1979, the band went onto tour the world and became a household name.

But cancer has plagued the Nolan family for decades, with Linda’s sister Bernie also dying from the disease in 2013.

Irish singer and television star, Linda, died on Wednesday aged 65 after living with cancer on and off for 20 years

Chatting to hosts Ed Balls and Kate Garraway, Vicky paid a sweet tribute to Linda as she reflected on her caring nature

Sisters Coleen and Anne have also previously been diagnosed with cancer.

Following the announcement Coleen released a statement on Instagram and said: ‘Her wit, humour and laughter was infectious, her presence could light up any room.

‘Linda had a heart full of compᴀssion and always knew how to bring comfort and joy to those around her.’

Conforming her death on Wednesday, her agent wrote: ‘It is with profound sadness that we announce the pᴀssing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.

‘As a member of The Nolans, one of the most successful girl groups of all time, Linda achieved global success; becoming the first Irish act to sell over a million records worldwide; touring the world and selling over 30 million records, with hits such as Gotta Pull Myself Together, Attention to Me and the iconic disco classic I’m In The Mood for Dancing.

‘Her distinctive voice and magnetic stage presence brought joy to fans around the world, securing her place as an icon of British and Irish entertainment.

‘Beyond her incredible career, Linda dedicated her life to helping others, helping raise over £20 million for numerous charities, including Breast Cancer Now, Irish Cancer Society and Samaritans, amongst countless others.

‘Her selflessness and tireless commitment to making a difference in the lives of others will forever be a cornerstone of her legacy.

‘Over the weekend, Linda was taken by ambulance to Blackpool Victoria Hospital and admitted with double pneumonia. In the early hours of Tuesday morning, she went into a coma and into end-of-life care, surrounded by her devoted family.

Linda was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, before being given the all clear in 2011. But in 2017 she was informed by doctors she had secondary breast cancer, and in 2023 told fans of its return after tumours were detected on her brain

‘At around 10:20am on Wednesday 15th January, she pᴀssed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments, aged 65.

‘Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others.

‘Her family kindly ask for privacy at this difficult time, while they and Linda’s friends grieve the loss of an extraordinary woman. Details of a celebration of Linda’s remarkable life will be shared in due course.

‘Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.’

Good Morning Britain airs on ITV from 6am and is available to stream on ITVX.