From Variety · Chris Willman · · 1m
Donnie Iris Dies at 83
Pittsburgh’s rock legend Donnie Iris, known for hits with the Jaggerz and solo work, dies after battling cancer.
In brief
Pittsburgh’s rock legend Donnie Iris, known for hits with the Jaggerz and solo work, dies after battling cancer. Donnie Iris, Pittsburgh’s favorite rocker who scored hits with the Jaggerz and as a solo artist, died at 83 after three years of bladder cancer treatment. Originally reported by Variety.
Donnie Iris Dies
Pittsburgh’s favorite rocker Donnie Iris died at 83 after battling bladder cancer for three years.
Jaggerz Hit Chart
The Jaggerz reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1970 with 'The Rapper', a song about rapping with girls.
Ah! Leah! Success
Iris had a hit with 'Ah! Leah!' reaching No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1980.
Pittsburgh’s Beloved
Pittsburghers called him the most beloved musician of all time, with warmth and connection in his performances.
Final Show
Iris performed his last show on Sept. 28, 2026, after radiation treatment for bladder cancer.
What it means
Donnie Iris, Pittsburgh’s favorite rocker who scored hits with the Jaggerz and as a solo artist, died at 83 after three years of bladder cancer treatment.
