The dazzling lights of Broadway dimmed a bit as the world bid farewell to the legendary Chita Rivera, a luminary who graced the stage with her extraordinary talent for over seven decades. Rivera, a beloved Tony-winning Broadway star, passed away at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy that transcends time and space.

The news was shared by her longtime friend and representative, Merle Frimark, who expressed profound sorrow in announcing the departure of the iconic performer. “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,” stated Frimark on Tuesday.

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Rivera’s daughter, Lisa Mordente, revealed that her mother succumbed to a brief illness in New York. Alongside Lisa, Chita Rivera is survived by her siblings Julio, Armando, and Lola del Rivero, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. The family announced that a private funeral will be held, with details about a memorial service to be revealed in due course. In lieu of flowers, they have requested donations be made to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS in memory of the late Broadway icon.

Chita Rivera’s illustrious career was adorned with accolades, including the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor presented to her by the President of the United States in 2002. She clinched two Tony Awards for Best Leading Actress in a Musical, solidifying her status as a theatrical powerhouse.

Rivera’s journey through the Broadway landscape began in 1950, and her extensive credits boast an impressive array of 30 roles. From the classic West Side Story to the captivating Kiss of the Spider Woman, she enchanted audiences with her versatility and magnetic stage presence. Notably, she originated the role of Velma Kelly in the 1975 production of Chicago, reprising her magic as Roxie Hart for the 25th-anniversary celebrations in Toronto, Las Vegas, and London.

As the curtains fall on Chita Rivera’s remarkable life, the echoes of her performances will resonate in the hearts of theater lovers around the world. Her contributions to the arts have left an indelible mark, ensuring that her legacy will endure in the annals of Broadway history.