Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Rowland, John Lennon's Sons and More React to Roberta Flack's Death at 88: 'Uniquely Talented'

Mar. 15, 2025

The entertainment world is mourningRoberta Flack.

After the “Killing Me Softly with His Song” musiciandied at age 88 on Feb. 24following anamyotrophic lateral sclerosis(ALS) diagnosis in August 2022, many celebrities who enjoyed Flack’s work or crossed paths with her personally shared tributes on social media.

Roberta Flack in November 2012.Shahar Azran/WireImage

Shahar Azran/WireImage

Jennifer Hudsonshared a photo of Flack in a post on X and wrote, “So sad to hear of Roberta Flack’s passing. One of the great soul singers of all time. Rest well, Ms. Flack. Your legacy lives on!!!”

John Lennon’s sons,Julianand Sean Ono, both took to the social media platform and paid their respects. “Roberta Flack was a neighbor of Dad’s in New York City, and a dear friend of our family. Very sad to hear of her passing,” wrote Julian on X. “Deepest condolences to all who loved her.”

Sean Onowrote on X, “Roberta Flack was a very close family friend and neighbor. She was an incredibly kind woman. Uniquely talented. I am eternally grateful to have known her. I’m heart broken she had to leave this earth. Will always love you.”

Roberta Flack in 1970.Michael Ochs Archives/Getty

Michael Ochs Archives/Getty

Kelly Rowlandshared that her “heart just sank” upon hearing the news of Flack’s death. “Our dear Ms. Roberta Flack has ascended beyond but what beauty she has left us with!! THANK YOU for your effortless, most beautiful gift,” she wrote on X.

“THANK YOU for being apart of the soundtrack to the most tender moments in my life,” continued Rowland. “So Grateful for you!”

Tyler, the Creatorshared a simple tribute on X, writing, “SAFE TRAVELS ROBERTA FLACK.”

Roberta Flack in October 1975.Ann Limongello/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty

Ann Limongello/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty

“Her voice and music shaped the very fabric of American culture, bringing depth, soul, and meaning to generations. But beyond her artistry, she was a freedom fighter and activist,” he continued.

“I first met her when I was just 12 years old at a rally for Operation Breadbasket. She was a dedicated supporter of the movement and Rev. Jesse Jackson. For the past 25 years, she remained a steadfast friend of the National Action Network, always showing up and standing for justice,” added Sharpton. “May she rest in peace and power. Her music will live on forever.”

Roberta Flack in July 1971.David Redfern/Redferns/Getty

Questloveshared a photo of the Grammy winner to Instagram and wrote, “Thank You Roberta Flack. Rest In Melody.”

Flea of the Red Hot Chili Pepperssimilarly posted a photo of the “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” singer. He wrote in the caption, “Roberta Forever.”

Sarah Jessica Parkerpenned a heartfelt note alongside a photo of Flack on Instagram. “Listening to her was blissful. Heart and soul,” she wrote. “We millions and millions loved you. RIP and Godspeed.”

source: people.com