Connie Francis, Iconic ’60s Pop Star Behind “Who’s Sorry Now?” and “Lipstick on Your Collar,” Dies at 87

Connie Francis, pop icon of the 1950s and 1960s, has passed away at the age of 87. The announcement was made by her publicist and close friend, Ron Roberts, through a post on her official Facebook page.

Announcement of Her Death

“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.”

Earlier this month, Francis had been hospitalized due to extreme pain and was undergoing tests to determine the cause.

On July 4, she updated fans that she was feeling better following a good night’s rest. Just a few days prior, she had shared from her hospital bed that she had been moved from the ICU to a private room.

A Viral Comeback

Despite health issues, Francis had recently experienced a resurgence in popularity.

Her 1962 track “Pretty Little Baby” became a viral hit on TikTok, gaining attention from a younger generation. Francis herself participated in the trend by posting a video lip-syncing to the track.

“First time I’ve lip-synched to this 63-year-old recording of mine!” she wrote.

She also expressed gratitude to stars like Timothée Chalamet, Ariana Grande, and Taylor Swift for honoring her and her music.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Born Concetta Rosemarie Franconero in Newark, New Jersey, Francis grew up in an Italian American household. As a child, she competed in talent contests and pageants, playing accordion and singing.

Her big break came after winning first prize on Arthur Godfrey’s “Startime Talent Scouts,” where she became a regular performer.

Godfrey encouraged her to adopt the name “Connie Francis,” believing it was easier to pronounce. Her career began slowly, with several rejections before signing with MGM in 1955. Her debut single, “Freddy,” failed to chart.

Success came in 1958 with “Who’s Sorry Now?,” a revival of a 1923 tune. The single launched her into stardom and was followed by hits like “Lipstick on Your Collar,” “My Heart Has a Mind of Its Own,” and “Don’t Break the Heart That Loves You.”

Film Career and Musical Legacy

Francis also starred in several films, including “Where the Boys Are,” “Follow The Boys,” “Looking For Love,” and “When The Boys Meet The Girls.”

Reflecting on her film career in 2017, Francis admitted her dissatisfaction: “I asked the studio why they couldn’t come up with a title without the word ‘boys’ in it!”

Despite her humor, Francis was a pioneering woman in rock and pop. She was the best-selling female vocalist of the 1950s and 1960s. Her unique interpretations, like the spiteful tone in “Who’s Sorry Now?” and the playfulness in “Stupid Cupid,” set her apart.

Songs like “Fallin’,” “It’s Gonna Take Some Time,” and “Vacation” added variety to her catalog. Her music reflected the soda shop culture of the era, and she was a forerunner before the girl group boom of the early 1960s.

Personal Tragedy and Advocacy

Francis’ life was marked by significant personal tragedy. In 1974, she was raped at knifepoint in a motel room after a performance.

She later sued the hotel chain and won $2.5 million, though it was later reduced. Her bravery in going public led to improved motel safety laws.

In 1981, her brother George Franconero was murdered. This traumatic event, combined with a misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder, led to repeated hospitalizations. She was involuntarily institutionalized by her father, who also managed her career.

Her autobiography, “Who’s Sorry Now,” published in 1984, documented her struggles. In an interview with Oprah Winfrey, she said, “My life has really been a Cinderella life with the exception of the last 10 years.”

Later Years and Enduring Legacy

Francis became a mental health advocate, serving as a spokesperson for Mental Health America.

Her music continued to resonate with fans, new and old. In 1977, she became the first female solo artist to have a No. 1 album in Britain with “20 All Time Greats.”

Although her chart-topping days ended in the 1960s, songs like “Pretty Little Baby” found renewed popularity. Used in 2025 TikTok videos by Kylie Jenner and Kim Kardashian, the track earned millions of new streams.

Connie Francis’ legacy is one of resilience and influence. As a trailblazer in pop music and a voice for mental health awareness, she remains a cherished figure whose music and courage touched generations.