Harry Connick Jr shares tragic family update
Harry Connick Jr has shared the tragic news that his father, Harry Connick Sr has passed away aged 97.
The former Australian Idol judge's father, who was New Orleans’ district attorney for three decades, died peacefully at his home on Thursday surrounded by family.
The cause of death has not been revealed.
Harry Connick Jr greatly admired his father who he called his “hero and inspiration.”
Harry Connick Sr passed on his love for music to his son, as prior to his career in law he owned two record stores in New Orleans and regularly performed in bands around the city’s French Quarter, according to People magazine.
He then began his career as a New Orleans district attorney from 1973 until his retirement in 2003.
New Orleans’ current district attorney, Jason Williams, has shared his condolences to Connick's family.
“Mr. Connick remains the longest tenured District Attorney, serving from 1973-2003. Such a longstanding public servant gives an enormous amount of themselves to their community — as do their families,” he wrote.
“Our thoughts are with the Connick family during this difficult time.”
Despite often travelling out of the US for his music and acting commitments, Harry Connick Jr loved spending time with his father.
One of the last few pictures he shared of them together was posted last October, where he described “hanging with my dad” as “my FAVOURITE thing in the world”.
“I come to see him about once a month in New Orleans, and it’s still not enough!” he wrote on Instagram.
“At 97, he continues to be my hero and inspiration ... I love you sooooo much, dad!!!”
Images: Instagram