Broadway Icon Chita Rivera Passes Away at 91
Chita Rivera, the legendary Broadway performer celebrated as the "first great triple threat," has died at the age of 91, as confirmed by her daughter, Lisa Mordente. Over her illustrious career spanning six decades, Rivera graced the Broadway stage in more than 20 musicals, earning three Tony Awards for her outstanding contributions to the theater world. Her iconic roles include Anita in West Side Story, Rose in Bye Bye Birdie, Velma Kelly in Chicago, and Aurora in Kiss of the Spiderwoman.
Described by Laurence Maslon, co-producer of the PBS series Broadway: The American Musical, as embodying everything Broadway stood for, Rivera was known for her spontaneity, compelling performances, and immense talent. Despite not starting as a Broadway enthusiast, having initially pursued ballet, she...