The Queen of Pop’s older brother Anthony Ciccone has died at the age of 66, a member of his family has announced.
Ciccone was one of the star's seven siblings and is said to have passed away on Friday night , February 24. His brother-in-law Joe Henry broke the news on Instagram, writing that Ciccone had "exited this earthly plane".
He also wrote: "Anthony was a complex character; and God knows we tangled in moments, as true brothers can. But I loved him, and understood him better than I was sometimes willing to let on."
Henry, a singer-songwriter, is married to Madonna's sister Melanie Ciccone.
Madonna paid tribute by posting an Instagram story writing: "Thank you for blowing my mind as a young girl and introducing me to Charlie Parker, Miles David, Buddhism, Taoism, Charles Bukowski, Richard Brautigan, Jack Kerouac, expansive thinking, outside the box.
Pictured below: A screenshot taken from her Instagram Story
Anthony had a long battle with alcoholism and was reported at times to be living under a bridge, he had been a constant source of worry for his famous sister.
It is believed that his alcohol abuse began in the 1980s when he left the family home and became estranged from Madonna. Anthony is survived by his mother, father, and four siblings. His death comes just days after Madonna's daughter Lourdes celebrated her 21st birthday.
In a statement released by Madonna's representative, Anthony was described as "a unique person who lived life on his own terms." The statement went on to say that "Madonna and her family are mourning Anthony's passing and are asking for respect and privacy during this difficult time."
The cause of his death has not yet been revealed.
May you RIP Anthony Ciccone.
Substance abuse means someone uses drugs or alcohol to excess. If you are worried about a friend, contact SADAG's Substance Abuse Helpline on 0800 12 13 14 or SMS 32312. Open 7 days a week.
