Newly-uncovered letter reveals John Lennon's plans for UK return the night before he was killed
He was "bubbling with excitement" during a phone call to his aunt
Last updated 26th Jan 2021
A new letter has revealed that John Lennon was “bubbling with excitement” at returning to the UK the night before his death.
The former Beatle phoned his aunt Mimi Smith the night before he was shot dead and it has been revealed that he was looking forward to travelling back to the UK from New York.
Lennon was killed by Mark Chapman on 8th December 1980, outside the entrance to his flat in Manhattan, where he lived with partner Yoko Ono and son Sean.
A month after his shock death, Lennon’s aunt Mimi Smith wrote to the Daily Express after journalist Judith Simons had written a letter of condolence following her nephew’s death.
Smith wrote, ‘Dear Judith, Thank you for your letter, kind thoughts. I’m trying to accept this terrible thing which has happened, but finding it very hard. He had such faith himself, I’m trying to do the same.'
'He phoned the night before, witty, funny, bubbling over with excitement, coming over very soon. Couldn’t wait to see me. So I’m glad of that.'
'If I’m in London, I’ll get in touch with you. Kind thoughts to you too. Mimi.'
The letter was discovered by Tracks Ltd, a leading dealer in music and Beatles memorabilia.
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