Chita Rivera, a beacon of Broadway and a trailblazer in the arts, passed away on January 30, 2024, at the age of 91.
Her daughter, Lisa Mordente, confirmed her passing, which occurred in New York City after a brief illness.
Born Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero on January 23, 1933, in Washington, D.C., Rivera’s journey into the world of performing arts began early.
She was a trained ballerina from a young age, attending the School of American Ballet, and eventually moved to Broadway, marking the start of an illustrious career.
Rivera was not just a performer; she was a phenomenon, a “triple threat” in the truest sense.
Her achievements include an impressive tally of ten Tony nominations, with two wins: one for “The Rink” in 1984 and another for “Kiss of the Spider Woman” in 1993. Her nominations spanned a wide range of shows, including “Chicago,” “Jerry’s Girls,” “Bring Back Birdie,” “Bye Bye Birdie,” “Merlin,” “Nine,” “Chita Rivera: The Dancer’s Life,” and “The Visit.”
Rivera’s talent was not confined to the stage. She dazzled audiences in film and television as well.
Her notable screen performances include starring opposite Shirley MacLaine in 1969’s “Sweet Charity” and a cameo in the 2002 film adaptation of “Chicago,” which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Rivera was also featured in the 2021 film “Tick, Tick… Boom!” about Jonathan Larson, the creator of “Rent.”
Her television credits were equally impressive, with appearances on “The New Dick Van Dyke Show,” where she shared the screen with her “Bye Bye Birdie” co-star, Dick Van Dyke.
Rivera’s contributions to the arts did not go unrecognized. She was awarded a Tony for lifetime achievement in theatre in 2018, celebrating her role in originating iconic characters like Anita in “West Side Story.
In 2002, she was also the first Latina to receive a Kennedy Center Honor, besides being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Barack Obama in 2009.
Her personal life was as vibrant as her career. Rivera was married to Tony Mordente, whom she met during “West Side Story,” from 1957 to 1966. The couple had one child, Lisa.
Rivera’s resilience was noteworthy, particularly after a severe car accident in 1986 that broke her leg in several places. Despite this setback, she returned to perform on Broadway, showcasing her indomitable spirit.
Her influence extended beyond the performances. In a 2015 interview, she imparted wisdom to the next generation, emphasizing the importance of being oneself and sharing one’s life as a learning process.
Tributes have poured in from stars across Hollywood and Broadway, including Rita Moreno and Ariana DeBose. In an Instagram post, Moreno remembered Rivera as “the essence of Broadway,” raising a glass to “this remarkable woman and friend.” DeBose, also via Instagram, described Rivera as “a force” and “greatness personified,” highlighting the inspiration Rivera provided to many.
Her funeral will be private, with a memorial service to be announced later.