Marianne Faithfull, ‘As Tears Go By’ singer, dies at 78 as ex-BF Mick Jagger pays heartfelt tribute

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM: Marianne Faithfull, the iconic singer and actress best known for her hit song ‘As Tears Go By’, has died at the age of 78, a spokesperson confirmed. 

The legendary performer, who starred in memorable films like 'The Girl on a Motorcycle', recently lent her voice to the 2021 Dune remake and 2023’s Wild Summon. 

As the heart-wrenching news spread, tributes from her ex-boyfriend Sir Mick Jagger, and other beloved stars have flooded in, honoring her remarkable legacy.

Marianne Faithfull's spokesperson confirms singer's death

Marianne Faithfull’s spokesperson has officially confirmed the death of the singer and actress in a statement, as per Daily Mail.

The statement reads: “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.”

Sir Mick Jagger pays heartfelt tribute to ex-girlfriend Marianne Faithfull

As news of Marianne Faithfull’s death spread online, her ex-boyfriend, Sir Mick Jagger, who she dated from 1966 to 1970, shared a heartfelt tribute.

On X (formerly known as Twitter), Jagger wrote, “I am so saddened to hear of the death of Marianne Faithfull.”

He reflected on her significance in his life, saying, “She was so much part of my life for so long. She was a wonderful friend, a beautiful singer and a great actress. She will always be remembered.”

Their relationship, which began after Jagger’s split from model Chrissie Shrimpton, was one of the most talked-about of the time. After their breakup in 1970, Faithfull spent two years living on the streets of Soho.

Bianca Jagger, who was married to Mick Jagger from 1971 to 1978, also paid tribute to Marianne Faithfull, expressing her sadness: “I am deeply saddened to learn that Marianne Faithfull has passed away. She was a wonderful singer and a talented actress. She will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with her son, her family and loved ones."

Marianne Faithfull’s loved ones share tribute after her death

Other beloved stars and renowned artists have also shared their tributes following the death of Marianne Faithfull.

Keith Richards, who co-wrote her iconic hit 'As Tears Go By', posted on social media: "My heartfelt condolences to Marianne’s family! I am so sad and will miss her!! Love, Keith."

Writer JK Rowling also honored Faithfull by sharing an image of the album cover for Broken English, with the caption, “One of my favorite albums of all time. RIP Marianne.”

Released in 1979, Broken English marked Faithfull's comeback after years of battling heroin addiction and homelessness.

Tony Blackburn OBE expressed his sadness, saying, “Sorry to hear that 69's singer Marianne Faithfull has died at the age of 78. She gave us some great songs to play. R.I.P.”

Singer and songwriter Tim Burgess took to X to share his memories: “Farewell Marianne Faithfull. I first heard Broken English on a school trip in 1980 and it blew my mind. She was such a free spirit and true talent.  We met in Amsterdam in 1994 and spent an afternoon chatting and in between interviews - going to listen to Why D’Ya Do it, right now.”

It’s worth mentioning that Faithfull began her singing career in 1964 after being discovered by Rolling Stones manager Andrew Loog Oldham.

The official Rolling Stone page reported, “Marianne Faithfull, the pioneering 'As Tears Go By' singer who transcended "it girl" status in the 1960s for a stunning second act as a singer-songwriter, has died at age 78.”

Marianne Faithfull's fans mourn loss of legendary singer

Within a day of news about Marianne Faithfull's death spreading online, fans of the singer and actress have flooded social media to share their tributes.

An X user wrote, "Another legend gone. Marianne Faithfull wasn’t just an icon of the ‘60s—she reinvented herself time and time again, turning pain and struggle into some of the most raw, haunting music of her era. Her voice, once angelic, became a reflection of a life truly lived. Few artists can claim that kind of evolution. Rest in peace to a true survivor. #MarianneFaithfull #RestInPeace" 

A worried user said, "Och! 😢 now i’m sad. I’ll be thinking of you." 

A social media user wrote, "Such a unique voice and soul…forging  her  path  bravely.  Rest  in  peace,  beautiful  Marianne  🙏💔." 

A speaker claimed, "We love Marianne. What an incredible voice. An amazing lady and extraordinary life. God bless you xxx❤️💙❤️." 

A comment read, "Rip the great #MarianneFaithfull 💐🕯️ ! I was lucky enough to work with her @KerryFoxActs & #MarkRylance 25 years ago on the film #Intimacy ! She was a lovely, friendly person & I enjoyed talking with her & our ensemble  basketball 🏀 scene very much! 😔♥️." 

"She will be missed. An icon left this world to play with the other icons. Rest in Peace," a fan added.

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