Singer and actress Marianne Faithfull has passed away at the age of 78, a spokesperson confirmed, as reported by the Daily Mail. Tributes have poured in for the acclaimed artist, best known for her haunting hit “As Tears Go By,” written by Rolling Stones members Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. A statement from her representatives read: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of the singer, songwriter and actress Marianne Faithfull.
Marianne passed away peacefully in London today, in the company of her loving family. She will be dearly missed.” Born on December 29, 1946, in Hampstead, London, Faithfull rose to fame in the 1960s after being discovered at a Rolling Stones party by manager Andrew Loog Oldham. Her debut single quickly made her one of the defining voices of the era.
Beyond music, Faithfull built a respected acting career, appearing in films such as The Girl on a Motorcycle and Marie Antoinette, as well as numerous stage productions. Her high-profile relationship with Mick Jagger and the pressures of fame led to personal struggles in the 1970s, including battles with addiction.
She later staged a powerful comeback with her 1979 album Broken English, which showcased her raw, distinctive vocals and redefined her career. Despite ongoing health challenges, including a severe bout of COVID-19 in 2020, Faithfull remained creatively active for decades. Marianne Faithfull leaves behind a lasting legacy as a fearless artist whose influence spanned generations.