By Christopher Ciccone, the younger brother of pop icon Madonna, has died at age 63 after a battle with cancer, his representative confirmed Friday.
Ciccone passed away in Michigan, surrounded by his husband, Ray, and loved ones. His death marks the second loss for Madonna’s family in recent weeks, following the passing of her stepmother, Joan Ciccone.
Christopher played a significant role in Madonna’s early career, serving as her backup dancer before becoming show designer and backstage dresser. He notably worked as art director for her “Blonde Ambition” world tour and tour director for “The Girlie Show.”
“Christopher was a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry,” said music historian John Smith. “His contributions to Madonna’s career were substantial, particularly during her rise to superstardom.”
Beyond his work with Madonna, Ciccone directed music videos for Tony Bennett and Dolly Parton, and later pursued a career in interior design. In 2012, he launched his own footwear line.
The siblings’ relationship was not without controversy. In 2008, Christopher released a tell-all biography, “Life With My Sister Madonna,” which became a New York Times bestseller and temporarily strained their relationship. They reportedly reconciled in later years.
As the music world mourns Ciccone’s passing, his legacy in shaping the visual aesthetics of 1980s and 1990s pop culture remains significant.
TMZ
