RICK ASTLEY Has Died, But RICKROLLING Will Live Forever

The Legendary Voice Behind “Never Gonna Give You Up” Falls Silent

British singer Rick Astley, the man behind the timeless hit “Never Gonna Give You Up,” has passed away at the age of 58.

According to initial reports, Astley died peacefully at his home in London following complications from a short illness. His representatives confirmed the news, asking for privacy for his family during this difficult time.

“Never Gonna Give You Up” — A Legacy with Over 1.6 Billion Views

Rick Astley’s iconic music video for “Never Gonna Give You Up,” uploaded to YouTube on October 25, 2009, has amassed an incredible 1.6 billion views as of 2025.

This milestone makes it one of the most-watched music videos from the 1980s on the platform.

The song experienced a massive resurgence in popularity due to the “Rickrolling” meme, which exploded across the internet in 2007 and significantly boosted the video’s view count.

On July 28, 2021, the video officially surpassed the 1 billion views mark — a historic achievement celebrated by Astley with a limited edition 7-inch vinyl single, personally signed by him.

“Never Gonna Give You Up” remains not just a symbol of 80s pop culture but a timeless classic that continues to resonate with new generations in the digital era.

A Career That Defined Generations

Rick Astley burst onto the global music scene in the late 1980s with his deep voice and catchy pop anthems. His debut single “Never Gonna Give You Up” topped charts in over 25 countries and became one of the defining songs of the decade.

Astley’s career saw a major resurgence in the 2000s thanks to the birth of the “Rickrolling” meme, which introduced his music to a new generation and made him an enduring symbol of internet culture.

In recent years, Astley continued to perform, record new music, and connect with fans around the world. His 2023 autobiography, Never: The Autobiography, offered an intimate look at his journey from small-town beginnings to international stardom.

A Legend Whose Spirit Lives On

The world mourns the loss of a music icon, but the spirit of Rick Astley — and the phenomenon of Rickrolling — will never die.

As tributes pour in from across the globe, one thing is certain: Rick Astley’s voice, message, and sense of humor will continue to inspire and surprise audiences for generations to come.