UPDATE: Aretha Franklin sadly passed away at the age of 76. Tributes have been pouring in from the music world.
Aretha Franklin is reportedly “gravely ill.” An anchor for Detroit’s WDIV said, “I am so saddened to report that the Queen of Soul and my good friend, Aretha Franklin is gravely ill. I spoke with her family members this morning. She is asking for your prayers at this time. I’ll have more details as I’m allowed to release.”
Showbiz 411 also reported:
This is exclusive, and heart breaking for me and for the family and friends of the great Aretha Franklin. She is gravely ill in Detroit. The family is asking for prayers and privacy.
Originally diagnosed with cancer in 2010, Aretha, who turned 76 in March, bravely battled back and refused to be knocked out by illness. Her last performance was on November 2, 2017 for the Elton John AIDS Foundation in New York. Her final public performance was at Philadelphia’s Mann Center in August 2017. It was a miraculous show as Aretha was already then fighting exhaustion and dehydration.
Earlier this year, Aretha had to cancel upcoming concerts due to health concerns. Last year, she announced plans to retire from touring.
Our thoughts are with you, Aretha!