Jools Topp, half of New Zealand’s Topp Twins, died on 23 May at age 68. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006, underwent chemotherapy and other treatments, and later saw the cancer return in 2021, leading to ongoing treatment. She died at home surrounded by her twin sister Lynda, her brother Bruce, close friends, and pets. Her family announced her death in a statement describing her as a warrior woman and praising her qualities and humor. The Topp Twins formed a musical comedy duo in the 1970s, later busking in Auckland, blending comedy with politics and activism on issues including Māori land rights and nuclear disarmament.
"It is with deep sorrow and unimaginable grief, we announce the passing of my beloved twin sister Jools. Today, we have lost a true warrior woman. Jools was wise, courageous, generous, inspiring and funny. We will miss her forever."
"She lived bravely with breast cancer for 22 years. Now she is finally free to ride on Pegasus, her winged horse, and round up sheep again with our dad Peter and all her precious dogs."
"Jools Topp was one half of Aotearoa's famous musical comedy duo with her sister, Dame Lynda Topp. Folk singers and activists, the pair formed the double act in the 70s when they performed together as children before moving onto busking on the streets of Auckland in the 90s."
"Their music intertwined comedy with politics, and they were known for tackling important topics like Māori land rights at Bastion Point and Nuclear Free New Zealand. Both sisters have been out publicly as lesbians since the 1970s, and have advocated for homosexual law reform in their home country."
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