Victor Willis, the Dallas-born lead singer and co-founder of the disco group Village People, died Monday, June 30, 2026, at age 74 after a short but aggressive illness. The band announced his passing early Wednesday on social media, requesting privacy for the family.
Born July 1, 1951, in Dallas, Willis grew up in Texas before pursuing music on the West Coast. He co-wrote and performed on the group’s biggest hits, including “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” and “In the Navy,” often appearing in the iconic policeman costume. The band rose to fame in the late 1970s with their high-energy disco sound and theatrical performances.
Willis left the group in the early 1980s but rejoined in 2017 after legal settlements, resuming touring and recording. He also won significant copyright cases that restored ownership rights to many of the band’s songs.
Victor Willis, Village People lead singer and Dallas native, dies at 74
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In recent years, Willis publicly addressed former President Donald Trump’s use of “Y.M.C.A.” at rallies. After initially requesting it stop, he later approved continued use, citing financial benefits to the song’s catalog. He performed the track at Trump-related events in 2025.
The Village People’s official statement read: “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.”
Willis’s death marks the end of an era for one of disco’s most recognizable acts. The group’s music continues to resonate in pop culture, sports arenas, and celebrations worldwide.
