Connie Francis, singer of ‘Pretty Little Baby,’ dies at 87
The 1960s pop icon recently saw a surge in popularity on TikTok as a new generation discovered her music.
Connie Francis, beloved for her 1962 hit “Pretty Little Baby,” has died at the age of 87. Her death was shared by a longtime friend as fans across generations continue celebrating her renewed fame online.
Francis’ passing was confirmed by her friend Ron Roberts in a Facebook post. “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, adding that she would have wanted her fans to be among the first to know.
Although no official cause of death has been released, Francis had recently shared updates about her declining health, including a stay in intensive care, which she confirmed on social media.
A voice that transcended generations
Francis rose to fame in the late 1950s and ’60s, with hits like “Where the Boys Are,” “Stupid Cupid,” and “Pretty Little Baby.” While her music career had quieted in recent decades, she found herself unexpectedly back in the spotlight in 2024 when “Pretty Little Baby” went viral on TikTok.
The song, originally released over 60 years ago, gained renewed popularity through social media videos featuring celebrities like Kylie Jenner, Timothée Chalamet, and Taylor Swift. According to Francis, the song appeared in videos with over 17 billion combined plays.
“Thrilled and overwhelmed” by her comeback
In one of her final public messages, Francis expressed her gratitude for the attention. “I’m still astounded by the popularity of ‘Pretty Little Baby,’” she wrote on Facebook. She went on to thank the stars and fans who helped reintroduce her music to millions, saying she felt “thrilled and overwhelmed.”
Francis’ life was marked by both success and hardship. In a 2011 interview, she spoke openly about her misdiagnoses with bipolar disorder and ADHD, reflecting on the toll it took on her career and well-being.
Still, she remained active with fans online, often posting updates and sharing memories. Her joy over her late-life resurgence was clear, offering a rare glimpse of a star who got to witness her music resonate with an entirely new audience.
Connie Francis leaves behind a musical legacy that continues to inspire. Her late-life recognition shows how timeless music can connect generations. As fans mourn her passing, many are also celebrating the rare joy she experienced in her final months.
