Francesca Cappucci, former entertainment correspondent at KABC-TV, passed away recently at the age of 64.
She was well-known for her dedication and passion for reporting about the happenings in Hollywood.
Especially noteworthy was her recognition when renowned director Quentin Tarantino honored her by creatively naming a glamorous Italian actress after her in his movie ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’.
Ms. Cappucci conveyed her astonishment during an interview at how this gesture deeply moved her.
Although Francesca Cappucci led an active and healthy life, never indulging in smoking or drugs, she was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer in July 2020.
Her oldest son, Ian Lyndon, described his mother’s case as an “extreme shock” due to the suddenness of it all.
He remembered her as a promoter of wellness who engaged in daily running and exercise despite being in her seventies.
As a result, the impact Francesca left on those around her due to her benevolence and empathy will be warmly cherished as she is laid to rest at Huntington Hospital in Pasadena.
Cappucci embarked on her career as a professional broadcaster in Los Angeles. A veteran of KIQQ’s morning drive show, Cappucci went on to make an impression at KABC Channel 7 Eyewitness News, featuring on their morning and afternoon editions for a decade.
Notably, during her time at KABC she interviewed some of music’s most seasoned icons such as Rod Stewart, David Bowie, and Michael Jackson; a testament to her interviewing prowess.
After a lengthy career in broadcasting that spanned over three decades, today family members have announced Francesca’s untimely passing.
During her tenure at KABC, Francesca Cappucci interviewed celebrated musicians such as Rod Stewart, David Bowie and Michael Jackson.
After Ian was born, she departed from the station, but ensured to stay connected to the entertainment industry by collaborating with her son on his 2018 short film Not Me – a project which starred future Netflix Outer Banks star Rudy Pankow and was presented in several film festivals.
Francesca Cappucci’s extraordinary talent was unmistakable—Cappucci was enlisted to portray news reporters in high-profile projects such as The Colbys, Columbo, 7th Heaven, The Practice, and Charmed.
Her career even extended to films, with her playing a reporter in 1997’s Beverly Hills Ninja. While Cappucci is no longer with us, she is survived by her sons Ian and Will, her brother Rafael, sister Isabella.
Besides her sons, siblings and ex-husband Gordon Fordyce, Francesca was also close to her cherished friends Kim Kelly, Diana Browne and Meredith Brooks.
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Francesca Cappucci, an esteemed entertainment reporter. It is evident from the text that she had a significant impact on the industry, and her loss will be felt by many. At 64 years old, she had a long and successful career, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. It is always disheartening to lose a talented individual who has dedicated their life to their craft. My thoughts and condolences go out to Francesca’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.