On December 29, 2023, celebrated Broadway figure, Maurice Hines, known for his work as a dancer, choreographer, and actor, died at the age of 80.
Richard Nurse, his representative and cousin, announced to The Hollywood Reporter that Hines’ death occurred in Englewood, New Jersey, due to natural causes.
Maurice Robert Hines Jr. was born on December 13, 1943, in Harlem, New York. His parents, Alma and Maurice Sr., a soda salesman and self-taught drummer, encouraged his early interest in dance. Hines and his younger brother Gregory, who was 26 months his junior, began studying tap under Henry LeTang in Manhattan. The Nicholas Brothers, Fayard and Harold, greatly influenced their dancing style and aspirations.
The Hines brothers, initially known as the Hines Kids, made their professional debut as children and their Broadway debut in 1954 in “The Girl in Pink Tights,” choreographed by Agnes de Mille. In 1963, they evolved into Hines, Hines & Dad when their father joined them. They were frequent performers at the Apollo Theater in New York City and were known for their appearances on television shows like The Tonight Show.
Aside from his group performances, Maurice Hines also had a successful solo career. He was nominated for a Tony Award in 1986 for Best Actor in a Musical for “Uptown … It’s Hot!” and returned to Broadway in 2006 with “Hot Feet.” He was the conceptualizer, director, and choreographer for these productions.
The relationship between the Hines brothers was complex, marked by a significant falling out that resulted in a decade of non-communication. The cause of their estrangement was never publicly disclosed by Maurice. They reconciled before Gregory’s death from cancer in 2003 at age 57.
In addition to his work on Broadway, Maurice Hines is also remembered for his film roles, most notably in “The Cotton Club” (1984) where his real-life brotherly dynamic with Gregory was brought to the screen.
Maurice Hines also made notable contributions as a director and choreographer, including co-directing and choreographing the national tour of Louis Armstrong’s biography “Satchmo.” He also directed, choreographed, and starred in a national tour of “Harlem Suite,” featuring several popular artists.
In 2013, Hines paid tribute to his late brother with “Tappin’ Thru Life: An Evening With Maurice Hines,” a show that toured in cities such as Boston, New York, and Washington.
Maurice Hines’ legacy is characterized by his significant contributions to dance and theater, his partnership with his brother, and his ability to navigate the complexities of personal and professional life. His death leaves a significant void in the performing arts community where he was known for his talent, creativity, and passion for the arts.
Hines is survived by his nephew, Zach, and niece, Daria. His life, which spanned over seven decades in show business, has been recognized and celebrated by many, including actress-dancer-choreographer Debbie Allen who expressed her respect in a heartfelt post.