Boney M founder Frank Farian dies aged 82

Boney M founder Frank Farian has died aged 82.

The German singer and record producer, born Franz Reuther, died peacefully at his home in Miami, Florida, his family has confirmed.

Kirn-born Farin founded Boney M in 1976, and went on to produce some of the group's biggest hits including Rasputin (a UK Number 2 single), Brown Girl in the Ring (1), Daddy Cool (6) and Mary's Boy Child (1).

Farin also founded German R&B act Milli Vanilli and Latin pop group No Mercy, as well as working alongside the likes of Meat Loaf and Stevie Wonder.

Farin's cause of death has not been confirmed, however he did undergo heart surgery in 2022, when he had a pig heart value inserted; an operation which saved his life.

At the time, he told German publication Bild: "My heart valve works wonderfully. Mick Jagger also received exactly the same heart valve. I have a good pig in me! And I’m very grateful for that."

Our thoughts are with the friends, family and fans of Frank at this time.

Article images: Getty