‘Pretty Little Baby’ singer Connie Francis dies at 87
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Los Angeles: Legendary singer Connie Francis, known for hits like “Stupid Cupid,” “Pretty Little Baby,” and “Mama,” passed away on July 16 at the age of 87, just days after being hospitalised for severe pain.
The news was confirmed by her close friend Ron Roberts, who shared a heartfelt statement on Facebook, saying, “It is with a heavy heart and extreme sadness that I inform you of the passing of my dear friend Connie Francis last night. 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 been admitted to hospital on July 2 after experiencing “extreme pain,” which forced her to cancel plans to perform at an Independence Day event. She had earlier suggested that her health issues might be linked to previous treatment she received on her hip.
In a message to fans, Connie wrote, “Hello Everyone. As many of you may now have learned through (radio star) 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. 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. My thanks for your many get well soon messages. I will endeavor to keep you updated. Love, Connie.”
She was later moved to intensive care and given a private room during her hospital stay. Her final Facebook post on July 4 expressed gratitude to her supporters: “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. Thank you all for your continued kind thoughts and prayers. A happy Independence Day to you and your loved ones.”
Connie Francis’s death comes shortly after her 1962 hit “Pretty Little Baby” experienced a resurgence in popularity, going viral on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Rising to fame in the 1950s, Connie scored numerous chart-topping hits including “Stupid Cupid,” “Lipstick on Your Collar,” “Who’s Sorry Now,” and “Where the Boys Are.” Her cover of “Who’s Sorry Now” propelled her to international stardom after being featured on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand in 1958. The song sold over a million copies and reached number one on the UK charts.
Francis continued to record and perform for decades, also authoring her autobiography "Who’s Sorry Now?" in 1984, followed by "Among My Souvenirs" in 2017. She gradually stepped back from the public eye in 2018.
With IANS inputs
