Blabbermouth reported today that Huntress lead vocalist Jill Janus has committed suicide as per Facebook posts from her former band mates. Janus, 43, was one of the more prominent women in heavy metal in recent years.
Janus herself had been open with fans and the public in regards to her battle with her health over the years. Originally trying to put out an album every year, Janus reportedly had bouts with “bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, dissociative identity disorder and alcoholism,” as well a struggle with cancer, as Blabbermouth also reports.
The reports surfaced from Janus’ ex-band mate, Casey Wood:
“I’m in shock and can’t stop crying. 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! You were supposed to be on your way back here Jill Janus. I love you I miss you, and my door is still open for you always. Rest in peace my sister.”
The report was followed up by a post by ex-band mate Johnny Jetson:
“Very sad news… Just talked to my drummer Casey Wood who informed me that our singer Jill Janus has passed away. My deepest condolences to her family and loved ones… Jill was amazing and will be missed…”
As of writing this post, the band have made their public statement, which reads as follows:
It is with crushed hearts that we announce that Jill Janus—frontwoman for the California heavy metal band Huntress—passed away on Tuesday, August 14. A long-time sufferer of mental illness, she took her own life outside of Portland, Oregon. Janus spoke publicly about these challenges in hopes of guiding others to address and overcome their mental illness.
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. In addition, 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.
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. She will be missed more than she could have ever known.
If you or someone you know might be at risk of suicide, Call 1-800-273-8255 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. It provides free and confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week for people in suicidal crisis or distress.
Huntress released Static, their third studio album, in 2015. The band has/had toured previously with Amon Amarth, Lamb of God, and several other noteworthy metal acts, with Janus being well-liked by many in the metal community.
