Broadway star Chita Rivera, renowned for her roles in “West Side Story,” “Chicago,” and “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” has passed away at 91, her representative Merle Frimark confirmed. Her daughter, Lisa Mordente, revealed Rivera died in New York after a brief illness.
Rivera, a trailblazer in the theater world, was celebrated for her longevity and excellence. “She was one of the few performers who put their stamp on Broadway in virtually every decade,” said Brian Herrera, a performance historian. Rivera’s achievements include 10 Tony Award nominations, winning for “The Rink” and “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” and receiving a lifetime achievement Tony in 2018.
The first Hispanic woman to receive the Kennedy Center Honor, Rivera also earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009. Her family has requested privacy, announcing a private funeral and a future memorial service.