Madison Beer Reflects on Christina Grimmie's 'Devastating' Murder

Beer says she 'literally owes her life' to the late singer, who was killed at age 22 in 2016.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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In a new interview, singer Madison Beer opened up about her admiration for the late Christina Grimmie, who was shot and killed at age 22 during a concert in 2016. Beer said she 'literally owes her life' to Grimmie, who inspired her to post her first viral YouTube cover that launched her career. Beer called Grimmie's death 'beyond devastating' and said she never got to express her appreciation to the talented singer in person.

Why it matters

Grimmie's tragic death at the height of her budding career highlighted the dangers that rising young artists can face, and her family has since launched a foundation to support families affected by gun violence. Beer's emotional reflection sheds light on Grimmie's lasting impact and the grief felt by her fans.

The details

In the interview, Beer said she was inspired by Grimmie's success on YouTube and The Voice, calling her 'one of the most talented people that ever lived.' Beer said she 'wouldn't have posted that YouTube cover if I wasn't inspired by her.' Grimmie was shot and killed by a gunman at her concert in Orlando in 2016 at age 22.

  • Grimmie was killed in June 2016 at the age of 22.
  • Grimmie's family launched the Christina Grimmie Foundation after her death to support families affected by gun violence.
  • Grimmie would have turned 31 years old on March 12, 2025.

The players

Madison Beer

A 26-year-old singer who rose to fame after Justin Bieber reposted her YouTube cover of Etta James' 'At Last' in 2012. Beer says she 'literally owes her life' to the late Christina Grimmie, who inspired her early career.

Christina Grimmie

A talented young singer who gained a following on YouTube before competing on The Voice in 2014. Grimmie was shot and killed at age 22 during a concert in Orlando in 2016.

Christina Grimmie Foundation

An organization launched by Grimmie's family after her death to 'shine a light on the needs of families who have lost a loved one to gun violence.'

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What they’re saying

“I literally owe my life to her. I wouldn't have posted that YouTube cover if I wasn't inspired by her.”

— Madison Beer, Singer (Who What Wear)

“She's, in my opinion, one of the most talented people that ever lived, and I don't think she got the recognition I always thought she deserved.”

— Madison Beer, Singer (Who What Wear)

“Though she is no longer physically with us, her light, love, and legacy continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her.”

— Christina Grimmie's family (Instagram)

What’s next

In honor of what would've been Christina Grimmie's 31st birthday on March 12, 2025, her family plans to continue honoring her memory and legacy through the Christina Grimmie Foundation.

The takeaway

Grimmie's tragic death at a young age highlighted the dangers that rising artists can face, but her talent, kindness, and impact continue to inspire fellow musicians like Madison Beer. Grimmie's family has ensured her legacy lives on through their foundation supporting families affected by gun violence.