According to a new report, singer Aretha Franklin is seriously ill. The Queen of Soul is 76 years old. Entertainment reporter Roger Friedman of Showbiz 411 was first to address new concerns over Franklin’s health on Sunday, saying that the 18-time Grammy winner is “gravely ill in Detroit.” Reporter Harry Hairston subsequently tweeted that according to a “close friend” of the music legend, she is “not doing well.” Yahoo Entertainment has contacted Franklin’s representatives for comment. Franklin, who last performed in public in November 2017 for the Elton John AIDS Foundation’s 25th anniversary gala, has struggled with health issues in recent years. In 2010 she underwent surgery for a tumor but later disputed reports that she had been diagnosed with pancreatic* cancer. Her undisclosed* illness has resulted in several concert cancellations. Most recently, Franklin had to pull out of performing at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in April on doctor’s orders. Reports of Franklin’s poor health have prompted messages of concern from various music industry figures. (SD-Agencies) |