Connie Francis, the 87-year-old singing sensation behind timeless hits such as “Pretty Little Baby” and “Who’s Sorry Now,” has been admitted to a Florida hospital, where she’s currently receiving treatment in the intensive care unit.
The music icon’s hospitalization was confirmed through multiple sources on Wednesday, July 2, though the specific reasons for her medical care remain undisclosed.
Family sources told TMZ that Francis is being closely monitored by medical professionals, with one insider confirming her placement in the ICU. The legendary performer has been dealing with orthopedic health challenges in recent years, and doctors continue to oversee her condition as she receives treatment, according to the outlet.
Francis herself provided updates to her devoted fanbase through her official Facebook page, explaining her current situation.
“I am back in hospital and undergoing tests and checks to determine the cause(s) of the extreme pain,” she has been experiencing, she wrote to her followers.
The singer had revealed to People in May that a hip injury had temporarily required her to use a wheelchair. It remains unclear whether this ongoing issue is connected to her current hospitalization.
The timing of her hospital stay has unfortunately interfered with her planned media appearances. Francis had hoped to participate in radio personality Cousin Brucie’s Independence Day show, but her medical situation forced her to cancel.
“I had hoped to take part in Brucie’s show for Independence Day, having had to cancel a previous slot a few weeks ago when receiving treatment on my hip,” Francis explained in her Facebook post.
“Sadly, I had to let him know that I again had to withdraw. My thanks for your many get well soon messages. I will endeavor to keep you updated. Love, Connie.”
Francis Later Announced She Was Moved From the ICU
Later that same day, Francis shared more encouraging news with her supporters. She announced that medical staff had transferred her from the intensive care unit to a private room following a series of tests and examinations. This development suggests some improvement in her condition and represents a positive step in her recovery process.
“Thank you all for your kind thoughts, words and prayers. They mean so much! Love, Connie,” she concluded in her update to fans. Representatives for Francis directed media outlets to her Facebook posts when contacted for additional information about her condition.
‘Pretty Little Baby’ Has Had a Viral Resurgence on TikTok
Francis’s hospitalization comes during an unexpected renaissance in her career, thanks to the viral success of her 1962 song “Pretty Little Baby” on TikTok. The track has captured the attention of a new generation, with over 3 million users creating content using the feel-good tune as their soundtrack.
The song’s popularity has been astronomical, accumulating more than 10 billion views and reaching No. 1 on both TikTok’s Viral 50 and Top 50 charts. Even celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner have used the audio for their own TikTok content.
Francis expressed amazement at the song’s unexpected resurgence during a May interview with People. “To tell you the truth, I didn’t even remember the song! I had to listen to it to remember. To think that a song I recorded 63 years ago is touching the hearts of millions of people is truly awesome. It is an amazing feeling.”
How her music has connected with younger audiences has particularly moved the veteran performer, who officially retired from the music industry in 2018. “It’s an honor. To see that they’re paying homage to me is just breathtaking,” she shared with People.
Francis theorized that the song’s appeal lies in its wholesome nature. She explained that “it’s innocent and pure, and this is a time when everything is in such chaos.” She has expressed particular joy that “kindergarten kids now know my name and my music,” calling the experience “just thrilling.”
The singer’s career spans decades, beginning with her rise to fame in the late 1950s when she became one of the most successful female pop stars of her era. Her extensive catalog includes classics like “Stupid Cupid,” “Lipstick on Your Collar,” “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool,” and “Where the Boys Are.”
Francis has settled in South Florida following her retirement. However, the unexpected TikTok success has provided what she describes as “an unexpected victory lap” for her legendary career. The viral moment has introduced her timeless music to a new generation of fans, who continue to show their support during her current health challenges.
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Music Icon Connie Francis Hospitalized in Florida ICU