Singer And Actress Connie Francis Dies Two Weeks After Saying She Felt 'Much Better'

The world is mourning the loss of Connie Francis, the magnetic voice behind timeless classics like “Stupid Cupid” and “Where the Boys Are.”

The beloved pop icon passed away at 87, leaving behind a lasting imprint on music, culture, and generations of fans, many of whom are only just discovering her.

News of Francis's death was announced by her close friend and the president of Concetta Records, Ron Roberts.

On Thursday, July 17, Roberts shared a post on Facebook that read, "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 added, "I know that Connie would approve that her fans are among the first to learn of this sad news."

Roberts concluded by noting that "more details" about Francis's death would "follow later."

Following the announcement, several fans took to the post's comment section to express their dismay at Connie Francis's death and pay tribute to her.

One person wrote, "Oh, this makes me so sad. I am so sorry for your loss. We are fans, but she was your lifelong friend. My deepest condolences to you."

Another person added, "So sad. She was one in million, beautiful in and out wonderful and so talented. Singing with the angels. Your music is a gift to the world that will live on forever."

Ron Roberts' post was reposted on Francis's Facebook page and more tributes followed. A fan wrote, "This is such sad news. Connie has been ’with’ me since 1956 when I was just six years old."

The fan added, "Through her music she helped me through bad times and encouraged me through good times. Her Italian recordings helped me learn Italian and I treasure the correspondence received from her. RIP dear Connie in the knowledge that you brought such joy to many millions of people all over the world."

Another person shared, "Very sad news. I had so hoped she would be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame before she passed away. She was considered the first lady of the first decade of rock and roll. Long ago she deserved to be included in the Hall of Fame. Rest in peace Connie. You will always be in my hall of fame."

Just weeks before her death, Francis shared that she was struggling with "extreme pain" that caused her to be hospitalized.

In a July 2 Facebook post, she wrote, "Hello Everyone — As many of you may now have learned through Cousin Brucie's Facebook page, I am back in hospital where I have been undergoing tests and checks to determine the cause(s) of the extreme pain I have been experiencing."

She expressed disappointment at not being able to take part in Brucie's Independence Day show, noting, "I had hoped to take part in Brucie's show for Independence Day, having had to cancel a previous slot a few weeks ago when receiving treatment on my hip. Sadly, I had to let him know that I again had to withdraw."

Francis concluded by thanking her fans, writing, "My thanks for your many get well soon messages. I will endeavor to keep you updated."

Just like she promised, Connie Francis updated her fans on her well-being on July 4 and wished them a happy Independence Day.

Taking to her Facebook page, she shared a picture of herself in a white Navy-like outfit with the US flag behind her. She also shared a photo of one of her iconic performances with men in the background hoisting the flags, including that of the US.

In the post's caption, the iconic songstress wrote, "Hello Everyone, 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."

She concluded, "Thank you all for your continued kind thoughts and prayers. A happy Independence Day to you and your loved ones."

Francis rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s as one of pop music’s brightest stars, known for hits such as “Stupid Cupid” and “Who’s Sorry Now.”

She made history as the first woman to top the Billboard Hot 100 and sold over 200 million records globally.

In recent years, her song “Pretty Little Baby” went viral on TikTok, earning millions of new fans.

Despite personal and professional setbacks, including a brutal assault, voice loss, and family tragedy, Francis remained a resilient figure, continuing to perform and share her story through bestselling memoirs.

Francis was married four times and had notable relationships, including one with singer Bobby Darin.

During her third marriage to Joseph Garzilli, she adopted a son, Joey Garzilli. She was with Tony Ferretti until his death in 2022.

Francis is survived by her son, Joey.