Chris Rea Health Struggles Before Death Explained
Rea’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from fans around the world. While the loss feels sudden, many who followed his life were aware of his long-running health battles. He had spoken openly about living with pancreatic cancer, suffering a stroke, and dealing with complications from diabetes. Earlier this year, he stepped back from public appearances as his condition worsened.
Driving Home for Christmas Takes on New Meaning After Chris Rea’s Death
The timing of his passing has added a bittersweet note to the holiday season, as his voice once again fills homes through Driving Home for Christmas, a song that has become a December tradition for many listeners.
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Chris Rea Net Worth in 2025: How Much Was the Singer Worth
At the time of his death, Chris Rea’s net worth was estimated at around £6 million, built steadily over decades in the music industry, as per the Finance Monthly report. His earnings came largely from album sales, royalties, and touring, particularly across Europe, where his fan base remained loyal. Over his career, he sold more than 40 million records worldwide, while largely avoiding the excesses of celebrity life.
How Chris Rea Made His Money From Music and Touring
One of his most reliable sources of income was Driving Home for Christmas. First released in 1988, the song grew gradually into a seasonal staple and is estimated to generate around £200,000 each year from radio airplay, streaming, and holiday licensing.
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Chris Rea Sold Music Catalogue to BMG in 2022
In 2022, Rea strengthened his long-term finances by selling his music catalogue to BMG. The deal included royalty shares from 17 studio albums and was believed to be worth a multimillion-pound sum, although exact figures were not disclosed, as per the Finance Monthly report. That same year, he also drew attention for his artistic work beyond music with the auction of his La Passione collection, which featured 68 Ferrari-themed paintings inspired by his love of cars.
Chris Rea’s Berkshire Home and Car Collection
Rea spent his later years living quietly in a countryside home in Berkshire, valued in the millions, where he could create and relax away from the public eye. His passion for automobiles was reflected in a small Ferrari collection, including a 1995 F355 Berlinetta that was sold privately and a 1980 Dino 308 GT4, which sold at auction in 2024 for approximately £59,000 after restoration, as per the Finance Monthly report.
Chris Rea Charity Work and Philanthropy Highlights
Giving back was important to him. Rea supported cancer research and charities such as Refuge. In 2025, he auctioned a customized 1989 electric Rover Mini Thirty, estimated at £27,000 to £33,000, with all proceeds donated to domestic abuse support services, as per the Finance Monthly report.
FAQs
How old was Chris Rea when he died?
Chris Rea was 74 years old.
Where did Chris Rea die?
He passed away at his home in Berkshire.