Bobby Rydell, singer and one of the first teen icons in the 1960s, has died at the age of 79.
The musician, who was known for his hits including Wild One and Volare, died on Tuesday just days away from his 80th birthday.
Reps for the star confirmed he died in Abington Jefferson Hospital from non-Covid-19 related pneumonia complications.
Rydell rose to fame in Philadelphia, signing a contract with Cameo Records.
He started to see success with his songs Kissin’ Time and We Got Love, as well as Swingin’ School which Paul McCartney has said was the inspiration behind The Beatles’ She Loves You.
Rydell also tried his hand at acting, playing Hugo Peabody in the 1962 film Bye Bye Birdie, alongside Ann-Margret and Dick Van Dyke.
Meanwhile, he also made an impact in the world of cinema in a more subtle way, with the high school in Grease, Rydell High, being named after him.
Following a string of hits, his final chart success was in 1964, with Forget Him.
The star went on to appear on TV shows including Red Skelton Show and The Danny Thomas Show, and became a regular on The Milton Berle Show.
Rydell continued to perform in nightclubs throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
He was married to Camille Quattrone Ridarelli from 1968 until her death in 2003. Rydell then remarried in 2009, to Linda Hoffman.
He is survived by his wife, his son Robert Ridarelli, daughter Jennifer Dulin, and his five grandchildren.
Tributes have poured in for the late star, with one fan writing: ‘It is with great sadness that I share the news that Philadelphia legend Bobby Rydell has passed away. His style will never be duplicated and his voice will never be silenced.’
Another said: ‘Another legend gone. rip bobby rydell,’ while one more added: ‘Very Sad News. Bobby Rydell Has Passed Away. Rest In Peace.’
