Soccer Star Joe Thompson Dies at Age 36 from Cancer, Wife Chantelle Confirms

Former English soccer player Joe Thompson died Thursday at the age of 36 following a third cancer diagnosis.

Thompson's wife, Chantelle, announced the news on Instagram (h/t People.com's Latoya Gayle), writing in part:

"Our brave and courageous Joey passed away in the early hours of Thursday morning, he was at home where he wanted to be in a beautiful peaceful setting surrounded by his family when he transitioned.

"Joe has made such an impact on so many people and we are all forever grateful for him blessing us with his presence and for being so strong and staying with us as long as he did against all the odds. He was the most Incredible husband, son, brother, friend & father to our beautiful daughters who will now carry his light and legacy on and I will continue to keep filling them up with Joe's love every single day."

Per Gayle, Thompson was first diagnosed with Nodular Sclerosis Hodgkin Lymphoma at the age of 23. He went into remission and returned to playing soccer, but was diagnosed again three years later.

Thompson went into remission once again, but the cancer returned in April 2024 when he was diagnosed with Stage 4 lymphoma.

After playing youth soccer for Manchester United and Rochdale, Thompson turned pro in 2006, spending seven seasons with Rochdale Association Football Club, who spent time in League Two and League One during his tenure.

Thompson later went on to play for Tranmere Rovers, Bury, Wrexham, Southport and Carlisle United, plus he finished his career back with Rochdale from 2016 to 2019.

All told, Thompson appeared in 261 matches across all competitions over his 14 professional seasons, scoring 26 goals from his midfielder position.

Following his retirement from soccer, Thompson became a soccer analyst and motivational speaker, as well as an ambassador for Manchester United.