Singer Tony Bennett Has Died at 96 After Years-Long Alzheimer’s Battle

Iconic jazz singer and songwriter Tony Bennett has passed away after a seven-year battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

The adored performer passed away on Friday, as confirmed in a statement by his representatives. Bennett was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2016, though his family did not announce it until 2021. While he still knew his loved ones, he was less familiar with household items, according to his wife, Susan Benedetto, who spoke openly with AARP Magazine about her husband’s health. The disease also impacted Bennett’s ability to understand where he was at times. Still, his music helped control the condition, allowing him to perform for several more years before hanging up his microphone for good in 2021. That year, he sang at his final shows at Radio City Music Hall on August 3rd and 5th.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tony Bennett (@itstonybennett)

Despite his battle with the disease, it has never defined him. After his breakout single, “Because of You,” in 1951, Bennett hit the ground running, releasing multiple pieces of music that earned him 20 Grammy Awards throughout his career, including the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001. He also landed two Emmy Awards and a GLAAD Media Award.

In 2014, a new generation of fans was introduced to Bennett when he collaborated with pop star Lady Gaga for their joint album “Cheek to Cheek.” Gaga even credited Bennett with giving her the will to continue with music during a time when she was ready to quit the industry altogether. 

Bennett passed away at age 96 and is survived by his loving wife, sons Danny and Dae Bennett, his daughters Johanna Bennett and Antonia Bennett, and nine grandchildren, per the press release.