Chita Rivera, Tony-Winning Broadway Star, Passes away at 91
Chita Rivera, a famous Broadway star, passed away on Tuesday at 91. She started as a dancer and became well-known for playing Anita in the original West Side Story in 1957. Rivera also starred in popular musicals like Chicago and Kiss of the Spider Woman, winning two Tony Awards. A trailblazer for Latina artists on Broadway, she broke barriers with her talent. Fans, colleagues, and friends remember her as a legend and an icon who made a mark on Broadway.
Chita Rivera’s Journey From Chorus Girl to Broadway Star
Born Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero Anderson in Washington, D.C. in 1933, Rivera started as a dancer in Broadway shows like Guys and Dolls and Can-Can in the 1950s. Her breakthrough came as Anita in the original West Side Story in 1957, earning her first Tony Award nomination.
Chita Rivera was a popular American actress and singer. Rivera went on to create memorable roles in Bye Bye Birdie, Bajour, Chicago, The Rink, and Kiss of the Spider Woman, winning two Tony Awards and receiving a total of nine nominations. She also appeared in films like Sweet Charity and Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, and TV shows including The Judy Garland Show, The Carol Burnett Show, and Will & Grace.
A trailblazer for Latina artists on Broadway, Rivera broke barriers with her talent. In 2002, she became the first Latina and Latino American to receive a Kennedy Center Honor, followed by the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009. Recognized with a special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2018, Rivera earned numerous other awards and accolades throughout her groundbreaking career.
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The Broadway Star Who Overcame Adversity & Inspired Generations
Rivera faced tough times in her life and career. Her dad passed away when she was seven, and she lost her husband, Tony Mordente, at 33. In 1986, a serious car accident injured her right leg badly, but she bounced back and returned to the stage with determination and grace.
Chita Rivera died at the age of 91, on January 30, 2024. In addition, she kept performing even into her late 80s, appearing in Broadway shows like The Mystery of Edwin Drood, The Visit, and Chita Rivera: The Dancer’s Life—a musical telling her story.
Besides her talent, Rivera was known for being generous and kind. She supported various causes and charities and mentored young performers. Fans, colleagues, and friends loved her for her passion, energy, and joy for life.
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The Broadway Legend Who Left a Lasting Legacy
Rivera's passing has led to lots of tributes and condolences from the Broadway community and others. Many people have called her a legend, an icon, a trailblazer, and a friend. Rita Moreno, who played Anita in the movie West Side Story, said Rivera was the essence of Broadway and a force of nature. Lin-Manuel Miranda, who made and starred in Hamilton, shared feeling heartbroken and thanked her for showing us how it’s done.
President Joe Biden said he was sad and called Rivera a national treasure who brought joy to millions.
Exploring the Impact of Broadway Star Chita Rivera's Legacy
Rivera is survived by her daughter, Lisa Mordente, a singer and actress who often performed with her. She also leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable performances, inspiring stories, and groundbreaking achievements that will be remembered in the history and hearts of Broadway and beyond.
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