Chita Rivera Obituary

Chita Rivera, the celebrated American actress, singer, and dancer, passed away on January 30, 2024, in New York at the age of 91.

The news of her demise was shared by her daughter, Lisa Mordente, who revealed that Rivera’s passing occurred peacefully after a brief illness.

Born in Washington, DC, in 1933, Chita Rivera began her artistic journey as a ballerina at the age of 9. Her exceptional talent was recognized early on, earning her a scholarship to the School of American Ballet under the mentorship of the legendary choreographer George Balanchine.

Rivera, with her Puerto Rican heritage, quickly rose to prominence as one of Broadway’s most remarkable triple-threat talents, showcasing her skills as an actor, singer, and dancer.

Her groundbreaking role as Anita in the original Broadway production of “West Side Story” in 1957 became a pivotal moment in Broadway history and paved the way for Latinx artists in the industry.

Throughout her illustrious career, Rivera graced the Broadway stage with stellar performances in notable productions like “Bye Bye Birdie,” “The Rink,” and “Kiss of the Spider Woman.” She was also part of the original Broadway casts of “Guys and Dolls” and “Mr. Wonderful.”

Chita Rivera’s contributions to the world of theater were widely acknowledged, earning her prestigious honors such as the Kennedy Center Honoree in 2002 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, presented by President Barack Obama in 2009. In 2018, she was awarded the Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre, a fitting tribute to her enduring impact.

Ariana DeBose, who portrayed Anita in the 2021 remake of “West Side Story,” described Rivera as “a force” in her heartfelt Instagram tribute. Stephanie Pope, a Broadway actress and a friend of Rivera, emphasized her legendary status and the unparalleled standard of excellence she achieved.

Chita Rivera’s funeral will be a private affair, as mentioned in a statement by her daughter Lisa Mordente. She is survived by her daughter and siblings Julio, Armando, and Lola del Rivero, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

As the curtain falls on Chita Rivera’s remarkable life, the theater community and the world at large mourn the loss of a true star, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.