Late music legend Roberta Flack, best known for hits like “Killing Me Softly,” left behind an incredible legacy of music. However, insiders now reveal that she also played an unspoken but vital role in the life of John Lennon’s son, Sean Lennon, following the Beatles icon’s tragic murder in 1980.
Flack, who passed away in February at 88 after suffering multiple strokes that ended her ability to sing, never had children of her own. But sources say she became a motherly figure to Sean, now 49, as he grew up without his father.
A Special Bond in the Dakota
Flack and the Lennon family were neighbors in the legendary Dakota building in Manhattan, where Lennon was fatally shot outside his home by Mark David Chapman. In the years following the tragedy, Flack grew even closer to Lennon’s widow, Yoko Ono, and their son. Sean has described Flack as “Aunt Roberta” and credited her for being a strong presence during his childhood.
An insider close to the family revealed that Flack, who divorced her musician husband, Steve Novosel, in 1972 and never remarried, found solace in her bond with the Lennons.
“Roberta was deeply affected by John’s death, but she poured her love into Sean and Yoko. She was like a second mom to him,” the source said. “She helped them navigate grief, and in return, they were always there for her, especially when her health declined.”
A Lifelong Friendship
Flack continued to support Sean and Yoko throughout the years. She reportedly leaned on them during her own struggles, particularly after health issues forced her to step back from performing in 2015. Those close to Flack say that losing her ability to sing was devastating, as she had hoped to perform until her final days.
“Giving up her singing career was one of the hardest things for Roberta,” said a close friend. “But she had Sean and Yoko in her life, and they remained a part of her extended family until the very end.”
Sean, who followed in his father’s musical footsteps, has often spoken fondly of Flack and the impact she had on his life. Her death marks the end of an era, not just for music lovers, but for those who knew the deep, personal connections she forged behind the scenes.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.