Dame Jools Topp: key obituary facts
Is Dame Jools Topp dead? Yes. Dame Jools Topp died on May 23, 2026, at age 68.
Cause of death: Dame Jools Topp's cause of death was reported as Cancer.
What was Dame Jools Topp known for?
She was a New Zealand musician and comedian (1958–2026).
More about Dame Jools Topp
Born: 14 May 1958.
Place of birth: Huntly.
Gender: female.
Occupation: comedian, musician, activist.
Nationality: New Zealand.
Awards: Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, honorary doctor of the University of Waikato.
Career began: 1975.
Also known as: Julie Bethridge Topp, Dame Jools Topp, Dame Julie Topp, Julie Topp, Dame Julie Bethridge Topp.
Years active: 1975–2026.
Known for: Topp Twins musical duoLesbian activism.
Dame Jools Topp, the New Zealand musician and comedian known as one half of the Topp Twins, died on May 23, 2026, aged 68.
A performer active from 1975 to 2026, she built a long career with her twin sister Lynda as part of the country’s best-known music-comedy duo. The pair were also known for their lesbian activism and for work across live performance, television, and film.
Born Julie Bethridge Topp in Huntly in 1958, she spent her life in entertainment and remained closely identified with the Topp Twins throughout her career.