Jimmy Cliff, the Jamaican singer, songwriter and actor whose voice and screen presence helped bring reggae to a global audience, has died aged 81. His wife, Latifa Chambers, announced on social media that Cliff “crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia.” 

Cliff, born James Chambers in St. James Parish, Jamaica, rose to fame in the 1960s and became an international figure after starring in the landmark 1972 film The Harder They Come, whose soundtrack and songs such as “You Can Get It If You Really Want” and “Many Rivers to Cross” introduced reggae’s rhythms and social themes to listeners worldwide. He later scored further mainstream recognition with his 1993 cover of “I Can See Clearly Now,” featured in the film Cool Runnings. Over a career spanning six decades Cliff recorded dozens of albums and earned numerous honours, including Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. 

The family announced Cliff died on 24 November 2025 after being hospitalised following a seizure; he then developed pneumonia. Several major outlets issued obituaries and retrospectives on his life and influence. Leaders, musicians and fans paid tribute. Jamaican prime minister Andrew Holness wrote that “today, Jamaica pauses to honour the life of the Honourable Jimmy Cliff, OM, a true cultural giant,” and praised how Cliff’s music “lifted people through hard times, inspired generations, and helped to shape the global respect that Jamaican culture enjoys today.”

Cliff is survived by his wife, Latifa Chambers, and his children. At the time of publication, the family had asked for privacy while they make funeral arrangements; no public details about services have been released. Media tributes and statements from fellow artists and institutions continued to appear as fans around the world responded to the news.