Acclaimed author Sophie Kinsella announced in 2022 that she had been diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumour. This is one of the most aggressive brain tumours, often called brain cancer.
Her husband Henry let us know that she died peacefully this morning, aged 55.
Sophie Kinsella was a bestselling author, possibly most noted for her Shopaholic series of books. The first two books of this series became the basis for the popular film, Confessions of a Shopaholic, starring Isla Fisher.
The announcement of Sophie Kinsella’s death
Sophie Kinsella’s death was announced this morning on social media. The following statement was published on Sophie’s Instagram account:
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing this morning of our beloved Sophie (aka Maddy, aka Mummy). She died peacefully, with her final days filled with her true loves: family and music and warmth and Christmas and joy.
“We can’t imagine what life will be like without her radiance and love of life.
“Despite her illness, which she bore with unimaginable courage, Sophie counted herself truly blessed – to have such wonderful family and friends, and to have had the extraordinary success of her writing career. She took nothing for granted and was forever grateful for the love she received.
“She will be missed so much our hearts are breaking.”
Sophie was a courageous advocate and, with her family and friends, tireless supporter of our work. She did so much to raise vital awareness of brain tumours and the urgent need for more research to find better treatments. We are privileged to have known her and her wonderful family.
Dr Michele Afif, Chief Executive of The Brain Tumour Charity
She was adored by so many; her books and her wonderful energy will remain an inspiration to us all. Our hearts go out to her family, friends and fans worldwide.
Sophie Kinsella and The Brain Tumour Charity
Since her diagnosis, Sophie Kinsella has been a High Profile Supporter of The Brain Tumour Charity, doing so much to help raise awareness of brain tumours, which are the highest cancer killer of people under 40.
Sophie has courageously represented the brain tumour community, telling her story on Good Morning America and vitally supporting our 2024 campaign for a National Brain Tumour Strategy to be introduced.
She also mentioned us in her recent novella, What Does It Feel Like?, drawing attention to our awareness and fundraising campaign, The Twilight Walk.
Sophie also created A Heady Mix in 2025. This was a concert celebrating music and literature with the goal of raising awareness for research into brain tumours.
For all this and so much more, we are incredibly thankful and deeply saddened by the loss of Sophie Kinsella. We send our thoughts to her family, friends, and fans at this difficult time.
Click the button below to learn more about Sophie’s work with The Brain Tumour Charity.