Broadway Star Chita Rivera Dies At Age 91 After A Brief Illness

"The Rink" star Chita Rivera has died.

The actress's death was announced by her daughter, Lisa Mordente, on Tuesday, January 30. Rivera reportedly suffered a brief illness before passing on at the age of 91.

Chita Rivera Won Numerous Awards During Her Lifetime

Rivera, the Broadway icon who rocketed to fame in 1953 with Guys and Dolls, died at the age of 91.

The daughter of the Broadway icon, Lisa Mordente, announced the news for the family. Per reports, Rivera died peacefully in her sleep after an undisclosed brief illness.

Rivera is survived by her daughter and siblings Julio, Armando, and Lola del Rivero. Her older sister Carmen preceded her in death. Burial arrangements are yet to be revealed by the family.

Rivera leaves behind a legacy filled with numerous awards, including 10 Tony awards, one of which was for Best Actress in a Musical for her role in "Kiss of the Spider Woman." She then earned a lifetime Tony award in 2018, one of the selected few to have such a prestigious award.

Throughout her lifetime, Rivera was recognized as a "triple-threat" entertainer, showcasing her singing, acting, and dancing talents, notably in classic musicals like "West Side Story." Her extensive credits encompass works such as "Bye Bye Birdie," "Jerry's Girls," "Seventh Heaven," and, more recently, the 2015 Broadway production of "The Visit."

Chita Rivera Tested Positive For COVID-19 Last Year

Back in September, the Broadway star was expected to appear at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts to discuss her tell-all book, "Chita" A Memoir." The book debuted in April of the year and was co-written by art journalist Partick Pacheco, who was also expected to appear.

Rivera was also slated to share insights into her Broadway career, accompanied by a showcase of mementos from her theatrical journey, all curated by the Library for the Performing Arts. Unfortunately, her plans were disrupted as she tested positive for COVID-19, leading to the cancellation of the scheduled visit.

"Unfortunately, Chita Rivera has tested positive for COVID, and will be unable to attend our panel discussion on Monday, September 18," the library announced on their website at the time, per Parade.

Following news of her passing, tributes have poured in for Rivera, honoring her Broadway legacy.

Rest in peace, Chita Rivera.