The “Y.M.C.A.” and “Macho Man” singer dies after a “short but aggressive” illness
Victor Willis, the lead singer of disco band The Village People, has died at the age of 74.
The singer, who provided vocals on the band’s legendary hit “Y.M.C.A.” died on Tuesday, his family have confirmed. “We are profoundly sad to announce the death of Victor Willis, lead singer of Village People,” the band said. “Victor passed on Monday June 30, 2026 of a short but aggressive illness. Privacy is requested.”
His wife, Karen Huff-Willis, also confirmed the news, writing: “It is with profound sadness that I must announce the death of my husband, Victor Willis. “Victor passed away on Tuesday June 30, 2026 as a result of a short, but aggressive illness. The family request privacy at this time of great loss.”
The song “Y.M.C.A.”was released in 1978 and became an international hit. The song was also adopted as a gay anthem, with many believing that it celebrated the reputation of the Young Men’s Christian Association hostels as a popular hook-up spot in the 1970s.
Willis later distanced himself from the claim, stating in 2024 that fans needed “get their minds out of the gutter” and that the “false assumptions were damaging to the song.” In recent years, Willis also enjoyed a close association with Donald Trump, performing for the president after he adopted the song at rallies and was memorably seen dancing to it.
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