Being a famous singer raises risk of early death, researchers say

The greater risk of death emerged only after singers had shot to fame, reinforcing the suspicion that fame itself was a cause of early death. Photograph: David Pearson/Alamy

For those who hanker for the limelight, be careful what you wish for: shooting to stardom as a lead singer really does raise the risk of an early death, researchers say.

Their analysis of singers from Europe and the US found that those who rose to fame died on average nearly five years sooner than less well-known singers, suggesting fame itself, rather than the lifestyle and demands of the job, was a major driver.