Meat Loaf, Iconic Rock Star and Actor, Dead at 74

Iconic singer and actor Meat Loaf died Thursday (January 20th) at age 74. The news was confirmed by his family in a statement provided to the press by his longtime agent Michael Greene. No cause of death was given.

"Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight with his wife Deborah by his side," the statement reads. "Daughters Pearl and Amanda and close friends have been with him throughout the last 24 hours. ... We know how much he meant to so many of you and we truly appreciate all of the love and support as we move through this time of grief in losing such an inspiring artist and beautiful man. We thank you for your understanding of our need for privacy at this time. From his heart to your souls … don't ever stop rocking!"

Meat Loaf's theatrical 1977 debut, Bat Out of Hell, a collaboration with songwriter Jim Steinman and producer Todd Rundgren, remains one of the top-selling albums in history, with worldwide sales of more than 40 million copies. In addition to his music career, the singer was also celebrated for his many acting roles. These included Eddie in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Robert Paulson in Fight Club and bouncer Tiny in Wayne's World.

For metal fans, he was also notably the father-in-law of Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian, who is married to Meat Loaf's stepdaughter, Pearl.