- Chita Rivera, renowned dancer, singer, and actress, has passed away at 91 after a brief illness in New York City.
- Rivera’s career spanned over 50 years on Broadway, working with some of the greatest talents in the industry.
- She was an award-winning performer, known for her resilience after overcoming a near-fatal car accident, and a strong advocate for LGBTQ rights and individuals living with HIV and AIDS.
Additional Coverage:
Chita Rivera, a renowned dancer, singer, and actress known for her contributions to Broadway, has passed away at the age of 91. Her daughter, Lisa Mordente, announced her death, stating that she died in New York City after a brief illness. Rivera first rose to fame in 1957 as Anita in the original production of “West Side Story” and continued to perform on Broadway for over 50 years. She was known for her incredible energy and ability to captivate audiences. In addition to her successful career, Rivera was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009 and served as the marshal at the Puerto Rican Day Parade in 2013.
Rivera worked with some of the greatest talent on Broadway, including Jerome Robbins, Leonard Bernstein, Bob Fosse, and Harold Prince. She overcame a near-fatal car accident in 1988 that crushed her right leg and went on to become a resilient performer. Rivera won two Tony Awards for her performances in “The Rink” in 1984 and “Kiss of the Spider Woman” in 1993. She was also nominated for the prestigious award several other times throughout her career.
Known for her unwavering dedication to her craft, Rivera believed in the power of original musicals that combined music, lyrics, words, scenery, and stories. She released albums throughout her career and was admired by many in the industry, including actress Kristin Chenoweth.
Rivera’s notable roles include playing the title role in “Kiss of the Spider Woman” and Velma Kelly in the original broadway production of “Chicago.” She continued to perform even after her accident, proving her determination and passion for her art.
Born in Washington, D.C., Rivera began her dance career at a young age and eventually joined the School of American Ballet in New York. She made her mark on Broadway in various shows and earned a reputation for her incredible performances. In her memoir, “Chita: A Memoir,” she embraced her alter ego, Dolores, who served as motivation and kept her on track throughout her life.
Rivera’s legacy extends beyond her performances on stage. She was a strong advocate for LGBTQ rights and individuals living with HIV and AIDS. The LGBTQ organization GLAAD paid tribute to her and acknowledged her contributions to the community.
Chita Rivera’s death is a significant loss for the Broadway community. Her talent, dedication, and impact on the industry will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.