Chita Rivera, a groundbreaking Broadway star and the first Latina recipient of the Kennedy Center Honor, has passed away at the age of 91. Her daughter, Lisa Mordente, confirmed the news, stating that Chita died in New York after a brief illness.
Born Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero Anderson, Chita Rivera made history as the first person to play Anita in “West Side Story” in 1957 and Velma Kelly in “Chicago.” She paved the way for Latina artists and achieved great success on the stage, earning 10 Tony nominations over six decades. She won the Best Actress in a Musical award for her performances in “Kiss of the Spider Woman” and “The Rink.”
Chita’s illustrious career also included starring roles in Broadway productions such as “Threepenny Opera,” “Kiss Me Kate,” and “Sweet Charity,” among many others. She continued to perform onstage, with her most recent appearance in the 2015 production of “The Visit.” In an interview with the Associated Press, she expressed that performing was “the spirit of my life,” and she couldn’t imagine a life without dancing, storytelling, and singing.
In addition to her achievements in the performing arts, Chita Rivera was a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and became a New York Times bestselling author with her memoir, “Chita: A Memoir,” released in 2023.
Chita is survived by her daughter Lisa Mordente, siblings Julio, Armando, and Lola del Rivero, and numerous nieces and nephews. Her funeral will be private, and a memorial service will be announced at a later date.
Chita Rivera’s legacy as a trailblazing Broadway star and her contributions to the arts will always be remembered. May she rest in peace.
