Victor Willis, Village People frontman, died of liver cancer

The cause of death for Village People frontman Victor Willis has been identified as primary liver cancer with metastases. His widow, Karen Willis, shared the details following his passing in late June at the age of 74.

Karen Willis noted that the disease has a history within the family, stating that his mother and several other relatives also died from the same diagnosis. Willis passed away just one day before his 75th birthday.

As the lead vocalist and a key songwriter for the disco group, Willis was instrumental in the creation of global hits including ‘Y.M.C.A.’, ‘Macho Man’, ‘Go West’, and ‘In The Navy’. After a period of legal disputes regarding song rights, he rejoined the group in 2017.