Funeral details announced for Dancing With The Stars judge Julian Benson

Julian Benson sadly passed away from cystic fibrosis over the weekend

The choreographer's funeral mass will be held at the Church of the Sacred Heart, Donnybrook. He will then be laid to rest at Glasnevin Cemetery.

Benson sadly passed away at the age of 54. He died peacefully at St Vincent’s Hospital, surrounded by his loved ones.

Benson was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at the age of two, and his mother was told he would not live into his teens.

However, he defied the odds and spent years advocating for fellow cystic fibrosis patients and raising vital funds for the community.

He founded the Julian Benson CF Foundation, which supports people with cystic fibrosis.

His family issued a statement following his heartbreaking passing on Saturday.

"It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Julian Benson. Julian passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family and closest friends, after a courageous battle with Cystic Fibrosis.

“His strength, warmth, and sparkle remained with him until the very end.

“A talent agent, dancer, and choreographer, Julian became a household name in 2017 when he joined the judging panel on RTÉ’s Dancing with the Stars.

“Affectionately known as Captain Sparkle for his trademark sparkly, custom-made jackets, he quickly became a show favourite.

“He will be remembered not only for his quick, witty one-liners but also for his unwavering kindness and encouragement towards the contestants.

“Julian was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at the age of two, but rather than let this challenge define him, Julian decided to embrace life fully.

“He began dancing at the age of four and embarked on a professional career at just 14 – an incredible achievement for anyone, let alone someone living with a chronic lung condition.

“His determination and passion became the driving force behind everything he did."