Victor Willis, the frontman and co-writer of the iconic 1970s disco group Village People, has died at the age of 74. The announcement was made Monday, June 30, 2026, on the band's official social media page.
Willis, a Texas native, was the voice behind many of the band's most recognizable songs, including "YMCA," "Go West," and "In The Navy." The Village People achieved international fame in the 1970s, known for their distinctive costumes representing archetypal male characters, with Willis frequently portraying a police officer and a naval officer.
After leaving the group in 1980, Willis engaged in a lengthy legal dispute over the copyrights to the songs he had written. He rejoined the Village People in 2017 and most recently performed "YMCA" at a pre-inauguration rally for President Trump in January 2025.
The band's official Facebook page confirmed his death, stating, "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."