Tony Bennett's Last Instagram Post Leaves Fans Emotional

Legendary singer Tony Bennett has died at 96 years old. He had more than 70 albums under his belt throughout his career. Despite being diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2016, he continued to sing until 2021, when he officially retired.

Bennett's last Instagram post prior to the announcement of his death has fans emotional. The post is a video clip of Bennett singing an excerpt of "The Way You Look Tonight." In the caption of the video, Bennett said, "Sharing a special memory from 2015 — serenading New York with the remarkable Bill Charlap, performing 'The Way You Look Tonight.' A night to remember!'" The video was shot one year before his Alzheimer's diagnosis and six years before his diagnosis was made public in 2021, and the heartbreaking update on Bennett's health was shared with fans. 

In the comments, many fans are sending love and confirming his legendary status in the music world. One commenter said, "RIP. Tony, you were one of the great legends, sad to see you go." Another fan said, "My sincere condolences to your family and friends, thank you for everything, and especially for your legacy in jazz." Another said, "Much love to his family & his memory."

On July 21, 2023, Tony Bennett's family took to his Instagram account to share the sad news. They posted an old photograph of a younger Bennett and captioned it, "Tony left us today, but he was still singing the other day at his piano, and his last song was, 'Because of You,' his first #1 hit. Tony, because of you, we have your songs in our hearts forever."

Others have been posting tributes to Bennett in the wake of his passing. Musician Elton John — who ended his last ever tour on July 8, 2023 — shared a photo of him and Bennett and said, "So sad to hear of Tony's passing. Without doubt the classiest singer, man, and performer you will ever see. He's irreplaceable. I loved and adored him. Condolences to Susan, Danny, and the family." Susan and Danny are Bennett's wife and son from a previous marriage. His other children are Dae Bennett, Johanna Bennett, and Antonia Bennett.

More tributes to celebrate Bennett's life have been posted by Hillary Clinton, Katie Couric, and the Radio City Music Hall Instagram account, with likely many more to come.

Following the emotional updates on Tony Bennett's Instagram, many celebrities expressed their condolences on their online platforms. The pain is apparent across the world of entertainment, a gut punch to all who loved Bennett. Among the most notable names to express their feelings about Bennett is former President Barack Obama. The 44th commander-in-chief shared a photograph alongside former First Lady Michelle Obama, Bennett, and his wife, Susan Benedetto. Obama penned a touching caption to the musician, who kindly performed for his second inauguration alongside Lady Gaga. "Tony Bennett was an iconic songwriter and entertainer who charmed generations of fans. He was also a good man. Michelle and I will always be honored that he performed at my inauguration. We're thinking of his wife, Susan, his kids, and everyone who is missing him today," Obama tweeted.

Singer Reba McEntire shared a photograph with Bennett during what appears to be a holiday celebration. The country singer explained that she'd met the jazz legend twice in her career, both of which happened to be at Christmas. She kindly remembered the songwriter, sharing: "He was a gentleman and a music icon, and his voice will live on for years to come." 

Others who chimed in include former President Bill Clinton, Carrie Underwood, David Letterman, and Dan Rather, to name a few. The tributes will likely pour in for days, leading to Bennett's memorial services and afterward. These plans have not yet been announced.