Rocker Jill Janus Commits Suicide at 43

Huntress frontwoman Jill Janus has died at the age of 43. Janus' band confirmed on Facebook that she committed suicide.

In a statement, the band shared, “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.”

The post continued, “Janus spoke publicly about these challenges in hopes of guiding others to address and overcome their 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. She will be missed more than she could have ever known.”

The band encouraged those suffering with suicidal thoughts to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

Janus' friend Lizzy Hale of Halestorm mourned her death on Instagram, writing, “It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to one of our peers. Jill Janus, has died today. Jill was very open about her struggles with mental health and addiction. Now, more than ever, spanning across Every age group, the suicide rate is extremely high.”

Hale emphasized, “I'd like to take a moment to state again how important it is to talk about mental health, and remind all of you out there battling demons that you are not alone. I have to navigate my own dark labyrinth and I turn to music and writing for my lifeline. I want to encourage you to keep searching for Your lifeline, something that makes You happy.”