Madonna is mourning the loss of her younger brother, Christopher Ciccone, who passed away at 63 after a battle with cancer. According to a statement from his family, Ciccone died “peacefully” on Friday, surrounded by love.
On Sunday, Madonna paid tribute to him on Instagram, calling Ciccone “the closest human to me for so long.” She reflected on their unique bond, which grew from their shared understanding of being different and not conforming to societal expectations. Madonna credited dance as the art form that symbolically “saved” them both and kept them connected throughout the years.
Ciccone had been a significant influence on Madonna’s early career, serving as her creative consultant and the artistic director for her 1990 Blond Ambition world tour, which was documented in the film *Truth or Dare*. He also choreographed the music video for her 1982 song “Everybody” and directed Dolly Parton’s “Peace Train” music video in 1997. Later, Ciccone found success as an interior and footwear designer.
Christopher Ciccone in Los Angeles in 2008. Chris Pizzello/AP
Madonna admitted they had not spoken for some time, but when Ciccone became ill, they reconnected. “I’m glad he’s not suffering anymore. There will never be anyone like him. I know he’s dancing somewhere,” she wrote.
