Iconic American pop singer Connie Francis, best known for timeless hits like “Stupid Cupid,” “Pretty Little Baby,” and “Mama,” passed away on July 16 at the age of 87. Her death comes just two weeks after she was hospitalised due to severe pain.
The news was confirmed by her longtime friend Ron Roberts, who shared the announcement on Facebook.
“It is with a heavy heart and extreme sadness that I inform you of the passing of my dear friend Connie Francis last night,” he wrote.
“I know that Connie would approve that her fans are among the first to learn of this sad news. More details will follow later.”
Francis had revealed in early July that she was undergoing medical tests after being admitted to the hospital on July 2.
In a heartfelt message to fans, she mentioned ongoing health issues, possibly linked to earlier hip treatment, and had to cancel her planned appearance on an Independence Day show with radio host Cousin Brucie.
“Sadly, I had to let him know that I again had to withdraw,” she wrote. “My thanks for your many get well soon messages. I will endeavour to keep you updated.”
In what would become her final public message, Francis posted on Facebook on July 4: “Today I am feeling much better after a good night, and wanted to take this opportunity of wishing you all a happy Fourth of July. Thank you all for your continued kind thoughts and prayers.”
Her passing comes as “Pretty Little Baby,” one of her classic hits from 1962, found a renewed following online, going viral across Instagram and TikTok in recent weeks.
Born in New Jersey, Connie Francis rose to stardom in the late 1950s and became one of America’s most beloved female vocalists.
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Her breakthrough came with a cover of “Who’s Sorry Now,” which gained national attention after being featured on American Bandstand in 1958. The single sold over a million copies and topped charts in the UK.
Her other enduring hits include “Lipstick on Your Collar,” “Where the Boys Are,” and “My Heart Has a Mind of Its Own.”
She enjoyed decades of success as a recording artist and performer and authored two autobiographies—Who’s Sorry Now? (1984) and Among My Souvenirs (2017).
Connie Francis gradually stepped away from public life after 2018 but remained a cherished figure in American pop culture. Her voice, spirit, and story leave behind a lasting legacy.
