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Ken Peplowski, 66, Found Dead Aboard Jazz Cruise After Missing Set

Organizers say the cause of death remains pending.

Overview

  • The clarinetist and saxophonist was discovered in his cabin on Feb. 1 after failing to appear for a 4 p.m. quartet performance featuring Shelly Berg.
  • Signature Cruise Experiences confirmed his death on the Celebrity Summit during The Jazz Cruise '26 and reported that no official cause has been determined.
  • Guests were informed of his passing before the evening big-band concert on the cruise’s final day.
  • Organizers plan a formal remembrance, and the seven-day voyage departed Fort Lauderdale on Jan. 27 before returning to port on Feb. 3.
  • Peplowski had disclosed a 2021 multiple myeloma diagnosis and had been spotlighting his 2024 album Unheard Bird during the sailing.