Iconic Actress and Singer Chita Rivera, Winner of Tony Award, Passes Away at 91
Stage and cinema icon Chita Rivera, known for her roles in productions such as “Chicago”, “Kiss of the Spider Woman” and “Sweet Charity”, passed away at the age of 91.
The news was confirmed by Rivera’s longtime publicist, Mel Freemark, who said that the legendary actor died “peacefully” in New York on Tuesday after a brief illness.
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Chita Rivera, who has had an outstanding career on Broadway over the years, was nominated for 10 Tony Awards, starring in the winning play “The Rink” and “Kiss of the Spider Woman”. Her contributions to the stage include her role as Anita in West Side Story, her stunning performance with Dick Van Dyke in Bye Bye Birdie, and iconic Bob Fosse musicals such as “Chicago” and “Jazz.” Needing the stage, Rivera performed in Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. She also appeared in film and television, appearing in the adaptations of Sweet Charity and Chicago, as well as Tick…Boom!, onstage with other music stars.
Academy Award for her role as Anita in the 1961 film adaptation of “West Side Story” winner Rita Moreno Moreno said: Stating that Rivera is an “important on Broadway” and “timeless” movie, Puerto Rican Moreno tells the story of their bond: “I toast to a wonderful wife and friend. Chita, amiga, Salud!”
Oscar winner Catherine Zee Ta-Jones Rivera, who played Velma Kelly in the original Broadway production of “Chicago,” praised Rivera for having an “incredible impact” on her life. Zeta-Jones paid tribute to her, calling her a “queen” and talking about the unchanging nature of Chita’s life.
Ariana DeBose, who won an Oscar for her role as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 reboot of West Side Story, praised Rivera he calls it a “power” and emphasizes the impact of its presence. DeBose praised Rivera’s high hopes and spoke of her inspiration, saying, “I am heartbroken but inspired because she showed so many of us that anything is possible.”
Broadway Actor and Rivera’s friend Stephanie Pope admired her told. as a “legend” and about the unparalleled standard of excellence he achieved. Pope expressed his gratitude for the time he spent with Rivera on and off stage, saying the theater community and the world had lost a true star.
Rivera’s daughter, Lisa Mordente, reported from Frimark that the star’s funeral will be private. Chita Rivera is survived by her daughter and brothers Julio, Armando, and Lola del Rivero, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.
