Lio, the renowned French singer, is facing unimaginable grief following the tragic death of her youngest son, Diego. The 21-year-old was found deceased on March 2, 2025, near the Roissy-Charles-de-Gaulle airport, reportedly having taken his own life. This heartbreaking incident marks another dark chapter for Lio, who has devoted her life to raising six children from four different relationships.
Diego's body was discovered burned, raising concerns and prompting the authorities to launch an investigation. According to reports, Diego took drastic measures, reportedly retrieving his mother’s bank card and filling up a jerrycan with gasoline at a nearby service station before setting himself alight.
The devastating news was shared by Esmeralda, Diego's sister, on social media on March 3. She communicated her loss through Instagram, stating, "My brother has died. Please do not send me messages. Thank you for your support." The heartbreak was palpable for the family as they began to process the inexplicable loss.
Lio, 62, is well-known not only for her vibrant music career but also as a devoted mother. She became celebrated for hit songs like "Banana Split" and has often described herself as fiercely protective of her children. Her family, which includes her eldest daughter Nubia, 38, son Igor, 32, daughter Esmeralda, 30, and twins Garance and Léa, aged 26, has been deeply impacted by this tragedy.
Diego, born on May 21, 2003, was the youngest of Lio's children. He had previously lived his life out of the spotlight, contrasting with his mother’s energetic persona. While Lio has shared glimpses of her family life, she has not often elaborated publicly on Diego’s character, leaving followers curious about the quiet youngest sibling.
Lio has lived through significant trials as she raised her children through their various struggles. Her relationship history includes notable turbulence; she shares Nubia with Michel Esteban, Igor and Esmeralda with theater director Alexis Tikovoï, and Garance and Léa with singer Alexis Zad. Her relationships have not been without challenge. Lio has spoken candidly about her experiences with domestic violence, particularly during her time with Zad, describing him as “a monster” during her pregnancy with the twins.
Reflecting on her past, Lio remarked, “I made my children endure very hard things for which I will blame myself throughout my life.” Her voice against domestic abuse has made her an advocate for women facing similar struggles.
Following Diego’s death, many have begun to connect Lio's past struggles with her children's experiences. Lio had expressed regret over pivotal parenting moments, stating: “I will regret until the end of my days not being able to protect my children. It’s not guilt but responsibility. I haven’t demonstrated responsibility.”
The tragedy echoes loudly not only within Lio's family but among her supporters as well. Upon learning of Diego’s outcomes, many have extended their sympathy, recognizing the toll such trauma can have on familial ties. The family’s closeness has been emphasized, with Lio’s own words underscoring the love she has aimed to instill among her children.
Lio stated, “I thought it would be easy for them once we were having dialogues and expressing love to accept their brothers, sisters, and different fathers. It turns out it was not. It requires much more than just talking about love; it takes constructive actions.”
The investigation currently underway will reveal more about the circumstances surrounding Diego’s death. His demise has sparked conversations about mental health, especially among younger generations, and whether adequate support is provided to those facing personal crises.
Even as the family grieves, Lio remains committed to her role as their mother, demonstrating resilience through her artistic work as well. Her life as a parent has always been multifaceted, balancing career aspirations with the necessity of nurturing her children amid her highs and lows.
This tragic event not only reinforces the impact of familial ties but opens discussions on the importance of mental health awareness and support systems. It reminds the public of the often-untold struggles individuals face, even those with bright public personas.
Moving forward, the focus remains on healing and seeking justice for Diego. The coming weeks will be pivotal for Lio as she navigates her grief, continuing the conversation around her experiences with love, loss, and resilience as she honors the memory of her last child.