Aretha Franklin gravely ill… needs prayers, family says

Aretha Franklin, a legendary singer famously dubbed the ‘Queen of Soul’, is gravely ill.

Some of her family members told Local 4, a Detroit news outlet, that the singer is in need of prayers.

Franklin is reportedly surrounded by family and friends as her health rapidly fails.

Evrod Cassimy, a news anchor at the station, confirmed that Franklin’s family informed him of her condition on Monday.

“I am so saddened to report that the Queen of Soul and my good friend, Aretha Franklin is gravely ill,” Cassimy tweeted.

“I spoke with her family members this morning. She is asking for your prayers at this time. I’ll have more details as I’m allowed to release.”

BREAKING NEWS: I am so saddened to report that the Queen of Soul and my good friend, Aretha Franklin is gravely ill. I spoke with her family members this morning. She is asking for your prayers at this time. I’ll have more details as I’m allowed to release.

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— Evrod Cassimy (@EvrodCassimy) August 13, 2018

Just got a chance to speak to Aretha Franklin. She is resting and surrounded by close friends and family. More details ahead on Local 4 News at 12pm. #ArethaFranklin #aretha

— Evrod Cassimy (@EvrodCassimy) August 13, 2018

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Franklin, 76, underwent surgery for pancreatic cancer in December 2010 and has often taken ill in the subsequent years.

In March 2018, Franklin cancelled her scheduled tour dates after she was advised by her doctor to “stay off the road and rest completely for at least the next two months”.

Her last performance was in November 2017 at Elton John’s annual AIDS Foundation gala.

Months ago, Franklin told Cassimy that she would retire from touring in 2018.

“I am retiring this year. I will be recording, but this will be my last year in concert,” she had said.

“This is it.”