Victor Willis, the founding lead singer and co-songwriter of the iconic disco group Village People, has died at the age of 74 following a short but aggressive illness, his family confirmed. Willis passed away on June 30, just one day before what would have been his 75th birthday.
The heartbreaking news was shared by his wife, Karen Huff-Willis, in a statement posted to the singer’s official Facebook page.
“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 requests privacy at this time of great loss,” the statement read.
Born in Dallas, Texas, in 1951, Willis began singing gospel music in his father’s Baptist church before pursuing acting and music. He appeared in the original Broadway production of The Wiz before joining forces with French producers Jacques Morali and Henri Belolo to form Village People in 1977.
As the group’s unmistakable lead vocalist, Willis helped create some of the biggest disco hits of all time, including “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” “In the Navy,” and “Go West.” His powerful vocals and charismatic performances helped transform Village People into one of the most recognizable acts of the disco era, with their signature costumes and energetic stage presence becoming pop culture staples around the world.
Although Willis left the group in 1980, he eventually returned in 2017 after winning a lengthy legal battle to reclaim ownership rights to many of the band’s classic songs. He remained the only original member actively performing with Village People in recent years.
Beyond his success as a performer, Willis made history through his fight for song ownership, ultimately regaining rights to several of the group’s biggest hits. His victory became a landmark case for artists seeking to reclaim their creative work decades after its release.
Willis leaves behind a musical legacy that has endured for nearly five decades. Songs like “Y.M.C.A.” continue to be played at sporting events, weddings, parties and celebrations across the globe, ensuring that his voice and influence will remain a lasting part of music history.
He is survived by his wife, Karen Huff-Willis. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
