American singer and actress Connie Francis, best known for her timeless hits “Stupid Cupid” and “Pretty Little Baby,” has passed away at the age of 87. Her death was announced by longtime friend and copyright manager Ron Roberts through a heartfelt Facebook post on Thursday, July 17, 2025.
“It is with a heavy heart and extreme sadness that I inform you of the passing of my dear friend Connie Francis last night,” Roberts wrote. “I know that Connie would approve that her fans are among the first to learn of this sad news.” While the cause of death has not been officially confirmed, her passing comes just weeks after a hospitalization due to extreme pain and health complications.
Born Concetta Franconero in Newark, New Jersey, Francis rose to fame in the late 1950s and became a trailblazer for women in the music industry. She made history by becoming the first female artist to top the Billboard Hot 100 with her chart-topping hit “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool.”
Her distinctive voice and emotional performances marked Francis’s career. Songs like “Who’s Sorry Now,” “Where the Boys Are,” and “Stupid Cupid” cemented her legacy as one of the most iconic female vocalists of her era.
Even in recent years, Connie Francis’ music continued to inspire new generations. Her 1961 single “Pretty Little Baby” found renewed popularity after going viral on TikTok in 2024. “To tell you the truth, I didn’t even remember the song!” she told PEOPLE at the time. “To think that a song I recorded 63 years ago is touching the hearts of millions of people is truly awesome.”
Reflecting on its popularity, she added, “I think it’s innocent and pure, and this is a time when everything is in such chaos.” Her words resonated deeply with fans who appreciated her sincerity and timeless artistry.
After retiring, Francis spent her later years in South Florida. In a 2025 interview, she revealed that a hip injury had temporarily confined her to a wheelchair but remained optimistic and grateful for her fans’ continued support.
Connie Francis leaves behind a musical legacy that transcends generations. She will be remembered not only for her chart-topping songs but also for the heartfelt connection she maintained with her audience over the decades.