Singer Johnny Hallyday known as the ‘French Elvis’ de*d aged 74

Singer Johnny Hallyday known as the ‘French Elvis’ de*d aged 74

SINGER Johnny Hallyday referred to by many as the “French Elvis” has died aged 74, his wife has said.

Hallyday died from lung cancer.

His wife Laeticia said: "Johnny Hallyday has left us.

"I write these words without believing them. But yet, it's true. My man is no longer with us.

"He left us tonight as he lived his whole life, with courage and dignity.”

The icon, also known as Jean-Philippe Smet, sold around 100million records.

The rock sensation released his first album, “Hello! Johnny” in 1960 - his first live performance was at the opening act of the Paris Olympia in October 1966.

One of the star’s greatest moments was surely a concert he gave at the Eiffel tower that attracted over 600,000 fans.

Hallyday also starred in a number of films such as “Where Are You From Johnny” and “Detective”.

The legend also made an appearance in “The Pink Panther 2” that also featured Steve Martin.

The star was credited for being the first Gallic singer to popularise rock ’n’ roll in France.

Hallyday’s music career lasted for over 50 years - he began his path to stardom at the end of the 1950s.

Referred to as “our Johnny” in France, the singer’s popularity was lessened outside of his home nation.

Hallyday attempted to expand his appeal to the global stage, he appeared on “The Ed Sullivan Show” in 1962 and performed at several concerts, however, his career never gained significant traction in the US.

The rocker toured over 50 times and played to more than 28million people.

During one of his tours, Hallyday was winched down to the stadium from a helicopter.

Hallyday attempted to commit suicide early in his career and had openly discussed his depression - he previously stated that he needed cocaine to get out of bed.

The singer was married five times - two marriages were to the same woman.

The “French Elvis” lived in London as a child where he was raised - he once said he was “very good friends with Jimi Hendrix”.

He stated: “I was very good friends with Jimi Hendrix, I knew Mick Jagger, John Lennon. Rod Stewart is a friend.

“We’d all record in the different studios and meet for tea.”

Laeticia Hallyday and the couple’s two adopted children, Jade and Joy as well as his son David Hallyday from his first marriage and his daughter Laura Smet from a relationship he had with actress Nathalie Baye survive the icon.





The star was credited for being the first Gallic singer to popularise rock ’n’ roll in France,
The singer was married five times - two marriages were to the same woman,
During one of his tours, Hallyday was winched down to the stadium from a helicopter,