Broadway star Chita Rivera, the legendary performer who had amassed more than seven decades of Broadway credits under her belt, breath her last at the age of 91.
People reported on Tuesday, January 30, that her spokesperson Merle Frimark confirmed the news of the American actress and singer’s demise in a statement.
"It is with immense personal sorrow that I announce the death of the beloved Broadway icon Chita Rivera. My dear friend of over 40 years was 91," she said on Tuesday.
Moreover, the cause of death shared by her daughter Lisa Mordente via in a statement only revealed that the three-time Tony award-winning artist died in New York following a "brief illness."
"She is also survived by her siblings Julio, Armando, and Lola del Rivero, (her older sister Carmen predeceased her), along with her many nieces, nephews, and friends. Her funeral will be private. A memorial service will be announced in due course," Lisa's statement added.
Additionally, the Tony Awards took to social media to pen a tribute for Rivera, who was best known as Anita in the original West Side Story.
"Remembering the incomparable Chita Rivera, a Broadway legend and three-time Tony Winner whose grace, talent, and passion left an unforgettable mark on the world of theatre," they wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Moreover, Elaine Paige, who has starred in other smashing hits like West End and Broadway musicals more than anyone else of her generation, expressed her grief in a post that read, "The lights won’t be as bright tonite on Broadway as theatre legend Chita Rivera has died."
"Star of many shows incl Bye Bye Birdie, Chicago, The Rink, Kiss of the Spider Woman & my favourite musical West Side Story. A fantastic artist who I last saw live at Cadogan Hall in London," she added.