Sheridan Smith pulls out of Funny Girl Royal Variety Show due to bereavement

Sheridan Smith is to withdraw from the Royal Variety Show next week due to a family bereavement.

The star of Funny Girl was due to perform in the annual television performance, which takes place at the Eventim Apollo Hammersmith.

Smith's father passed away this week, following a diagnosis of cancer earlier this year. A statement from her spokesperson said: "Sheridan's much loved father sadly passed away this week. We can confirm that she will not be performing at the Royal Variety Performance this Tuesday, December 6. At this difficult time for Sheridan and her family we would ask that you please respect their privacy."

Smith missed several performances of the show when it ran at the Menier Chocolate Factory after her father became ill. She then took a leave of absence from the production's West End run in May citing stress and exhaustion.

The actress is still due to perform with the musical when it tours next year.

Smith was recognised in the WhatsOnStage Awards launch with a nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. Funny Girl was nominated five times.