American star Aretha Franklin gravely ill

American singer and songwriter Aretha Franklin, who has struggled with her health in the last few years, is in a grave condition and her family and friends are gathering to say their final goodbye.

People Magazine quoted a source as saying, "She has been ill for a long time. She did not want people to know and she didn't make it public."

Meanwhile, the 76-year-old star' weight was also down to 86 pounds and her health was deteriorating, according to a source quoted by TMZ. The source further said that everyone should prepare themselves as Franklin is very close to her death.

The star has performed only on a limited basis in past few years because of her poor health, with her most recent appearance coming in last November at an Elton John AIDS Foundation event.

The singer has also given a lot of hits like 'Respect', 'Natural Women', and 'I say a little prayer'.

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