American pop singer and actress Connie Francis passed away. She was known for When the Boys Meet the Girls, Where the Boys Are, Follow the Boys and Looking for Love. Her full name was Concetta Rosa Maria Franconero and born on December 12, 1937 in Newark, New Jersey, U.S.
Connie Francis died at 87
Connie Francis died on July 16, 2025 at the age of 87. Ron Roberts, confirmed the news on Facebook, wrote
“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.”
Connie Francis (Final public message, via her Facebook page),
During her hospitalization on July 2, Connie wrote:
“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… My thanks for your many get well soon messages. I will endeavor to keep you updated. Love, Connie.”
“I am pleased to advise that following a series of tests and examinations in Intensive Care, I have now been transferred to a private room. Thank you all for your kind thoughts, words and prayers. They mean so much! Love, Connie.”
Early life
Connie Francis, born Concetta Rosa Maria Franconero on December 12, 1937, in Newark, New Jersey, grew up in an Italian-American family where music played a central role. Encouraged by her father, she began performing at age four, learning to sing and play the accordion. After attending Newark Arts High School and later Belleville High School, she gained early exposure on Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts. Despite early setbacks with unsuccessful singles, her big break came in 1958 when she recorded “Who’s Sorry Now” at her father’s urging. The song became a massive hit after airing on American Bandstand, launching her into international stardom with a signature style that blended pop, rock, and multilingual ballads.
Career
Connie Francis rose to fame in 1958 with her breakout hit “Who’s Sorry Now,” which launched a record-breaking career as one of the most successful female pop singers of her time. She followed it with a series of chart-toppers including “Stupid Cupid,” “Lipstick on Your Collar,” “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool,” and “Where the Boys Are,” the latter also serving as the theme for the 1960 film in which she starred.
She became the first woman to top the Billboard Hot 100 and gained international fame by recording songs in over 15 languages.
Her music found success worldwide, especially in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Alongside her music career, she acted in films and paved the way for future female artists in a male-dominated industry. Despite personal tragedies and health struggles, Connie remained active for decades, known for her versatility, resilience, and timeless voice that left a lasting mark on global pop culture. She received Female Recording Artist of the Year (Foreign Division) award in 1969 and Celebrity Inductee in 2009.
Personal life
Connie Francis was born to George and Ida Franconero in Newark, New Jersey, and was very close to her family, especially her father, who guided her music career from the start. She had a younger brother, George Jr., who was tragically murdered in 1981 in a mob-related shooting. Though she married four times, all her marriages ended in divorce, and she never had children. Despite personal losses, her family remained a significant part of her life and legacy.
Her first husband was Dick Kanellis, married in 1964 and divorced in 1964. Her second husband was Izzy Marion married in 1971 and divorced in 1971. Her third husband was Joe Garzilli, married in 1973 and separated in 1980. Her last husband was Bob Parkinson married in 1985 and divorce in 1985.
She had a Partner named Tony Ferretti.
