Three Dog Night Star Chuck Negron Dies at 83

Chuck Negron, a defining voice of the late 1960s and early 1970s and a founding member of Three Dog Night, died on February 2, 2026. He was 83 years old and passed away at his home in Studio City, Los Angeles. His publicist confirmed the news, stating he died peacefully surrounded by family.

Negron's cause of death was complications stemming from heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a condition he had managed for years. He was open about his health struggles, even using modified glasses to deliver oxygen during performances to avoid a visible mask.

Beyond his musical legacy, Negron was a prominent advocate for sobriety. He successfully overcame a decade-long heroin addiction in the early 1990s and detailed his arduous recovery in his 1999 autobiography, "Three Dog Nightmare." This candid account offered hope to many struggling with addiction.

Born in the Bronx, Negron's talent extended beyond music; he was also a college basketball player before finding fame with Three Dog Night. The band achieved significant success, with 21 consecutive Top 40 hits. Negron lent his soulful tenor to numerous classics, including 'Joy to the World,' 'One,' and 'Easy to Be Hard.'

Negron's struggles with addiction led to his dismissal from the band in 1985. After numerous rehabilitation attempts, he achieved sobriety in September 1991. He later released solo albums and continued to tour, including appearances on the "Happy Together Tour." He is survived by his wife, Ami Albea Negron, five children, and nine grandchildren.