Remembering Connie Francis: Iconic 1960s Pop Star of ‘Pretty Little Baby’ Passes Away at 87

Connie Francis, the beloved pop star from the 1950s and 60s, has passed away at 87. Her friend and publicist, Ron Roberts, shared the news without many details.

Francis was a key figure in music before the Beatles changed the landscape. From 1957 to 1964, her songs frequently topped the charts. Hits like “Who’s Sorry Now?” and “Don’t Break the Heart That Loves You” showcased her ability to connect with audiences of all ages. She also acted in popular films such as “Where the Boys Are.”

At just 17, Francis signed with MGM Records after she appeared on TV shows. Her early records didn’t gain much traction until “Who’s Sorry Now?” received a boost from Dick Clark on “American Bandstand” in 1958. The song sparked her rise, leading to other hits like “Stupid Cupid” and “Lipstick on Your Collar.” She even recorded versions of her songs in multiple languages, expanding her global fan base.

Despite her success, her personal life was filled with challenges. A romance with fellow star Bobby Darin ended dramatically when her father intervened, pulling a gun on him over wedding rumors. Francis reflected on her struggles in her autobiography, stating, “My personal life is a regret from A to Z.”

Her father, George Franconero, played a significant role in her career, managing her from a young age. Yet their relationship became complicated. She later described how his influence overshadowed her choices.

Francis faced severe hardships. In 1974, she was attacked in a hotel room, which led to a lawsuit over security issues. The traumatic experience shattered her marriage and caused years of emotional pain. In 1981, her brother was murdered, and later, Francis struggled with mental health issues, even attempting suicide at one point. She was married four times, caring most for her third husband, Joseph Garzilli.

In a surprising turn, Francis’s song “Pretty Little Baby” went viral on TikTok in 2025, introducing her to a younger audience. She expressed her surprise at the song’s revival, saying, “To think that a song I recorded 63 years ago is touching hearts today is truly awesome.”

Connie Francis’s journey reminds us that even stars endure struggles. Her ability to connect through music and share her story leaves a lasting legacy.

For more on her life, you can read this article.

Source link