Founding Village People Frontman Victor Willis Dies at 74
Victor Willis, the original lead singer and co-writer of hits such as “YMCA,” died on June 30 at age 74 after a brief illness.
Victor Willis, the founding lead vocalist of the Village People and co-writer of the group’s biggest singles, died on Monday, June 30, 2026, at age 74. The band announced his passing on its official Facebook page, requesting privacy for the family.
Born to a Baptist preacher in San Francisco, Willis honed his singing in his father’s church before studying acting and dance. He moved to New York, joined the Negro Ensemble Company, and appeared in the original Broadway production of “The Wiz” in 1976.
French disco producer Jacques Morali recruited Willis to front a new project, leading to the release of the Village People’s debut album in July 1977. After a performance on “American Bandstand,” a full costumed lineup was assembled, creating the iconic personas that defined the group’s image.
Willis co-wrote the band’s signature tracks, including “YMCA,” “Macho Man,” “In the Navy,” and “Go West.” In 2020, the Library of Congress added “YMCA” to the National Recording Registry, and the following year the song entered the Grammy Hall of Fame.
He left the group in 1980, briefly returned for the film “Can’t Stop the Music,” and departed again in 1983. In later years, Willis faced substance-abuse challenges and entered treatment at the Betty Ford Clinic in 2007.
"We are profoundly sad to announce the death of Victor Willis, lead singer of Village People. Victor passed on Monday June 30, 2026 of a short but aggressive illness. Privacy is requested," the band posted.
