Huntress Frontwoman Jill Janus Dies
Huntress’ former manager Jackie Kajzer (better known to fans as Full Metal Jackie) confirmed that the band’s frontwoman Jill Janus passed away on Tuesday, August 14. She was 43 years old.
“I’m in shock and can’t stop crying,” Janus’ former bandmate and friend Casey Wood shared in a post on social media. “My X best friend, singer has left the world. She was the biggest sweetheart and I hope that her legacy lives on as it should!”
“Janus was a truly special creative involved with numerous musical projects including her role as vocalist for female metal/hard rock cover bands TheStarbreakers and Chelsea Girls,” a statement from Huntress reads. “Janus was co-composer and creator of an upcoming rock opera with Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s Angus Clark and had a decade-long career as NYC DJ Penelope Tuesdae. Her musical career began in childhood.”
The band also confirmed that the singer took her own life, as she was a long-time sufferer of mental illness. Janus spoke openly about the personal struggles she faced in hopes it would guide others to overcome their own challenges with mental illness.
“Beyond her accomplishments in the music world and her advocacy for mental health issues, she was a beautiful person passionate about her family, animal rescue and the world of natural medicine,” the statement reads. “She will be missed more than she could have ever known.”
