Popular Music Video Director Has Died at 63; Ciara Mourns

Ciara mourns the heartbreaking loss of director Diane Martel, who is known for creating iconic music videos for the industry’s top stars.

The 63-year-old passed away on Thursday after battling breast cancer.

In a statement obtained by Rolling Stone, the family shared that the beloved filmmaker was surrounded by her loved ones at the time of her passing.

“Diane passed away peacefully at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital  – surrounded by friends and family – after a long battle with breast cancer,” the statement reads, adding “She is survived by her Aunt, Gail Merrifield Papp (wife of Joseph Papp, founder of The Public Theatre), her three beloved, loyal cats (Poki, PopPop, PomPom) and many loving lifetime friends.”

The New York native began her career in the music industry in the early 1990s and had her first break after working with Mariah Carey on her song “Dreamlover.”

It was followed by her holiday hits like “All I Want for Christmas Is You” and “Miss You Most (At Christmas Time)” as well as her music videos from the Butterfly album, “The Roof” and “Breakdown.”

Besides the music legend, Martel also directed music videos for Justin Timberlake’s “Like I Love You,” Beyoncé’s “Listen,” Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” and three of Miley Cyrus’ songs, “Malibu,” “Younger Now,” and the iconic “We Can’t Stop.”

Among her many accomplishments, Martel also served as the creative director for the pop star’s Bangerz Tour and Ciara’s comeback music video for “Ecstasy.”

Following her death, the “Level Up” songstress dedicated a post on X honoring the life of the late director.

Ciara expressed her deep gratitude to Martel, whom she affectionately calls “Miss D,” saying she is “forever grateful” for her creativity.

“You believed in me and I believed in you! You will forever hold a special place in my heart and I am forever grateful for all the magic we’ve were able to make together. I know it was all God! Heaven has just gained an Angel. I love you so much @DIANEMARTELOFF A.k.a. Miss D! Rest In Paradise,” she wrote.

Along with a heartfelt tribute, the New York Giants WAG also shared photos with the music video director during the filming of “Ecstasy,” showing their genuine closeness.

Fans also chimed in and shared their condolences, celebrating Martel’s incredible impact on the music industry.

“You two were magic together. RIP Diane!” a follower said.

“RIP to the legendary Diane Martel,” a commenter noted.

Related: Ciara Reveals Exciting New Opportunity That Left Her Feeling ‘Honored’

This story was originally reported by Parade on Sep 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.