Chita Rivera, Broadway Icon and Trailblazer, Passes Away at 91
Chita Rivera, the legendary Broadway performer known for her role as Anita in the original cast of “West Side Story,” has died at the age of 91. Rivera passed away on Tuesday in New York after a brief illness, according to a statement from her daughter.
Born on January 23, 1933, in Washington, D.C., Chita Rivera, whose full name was Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero Montestuco Florentina Carnemacaral del Fuente, was a trailblazer for Latinas in the Broadway industry. She received 10 Tony nominations throughout her career and won twice. In 2018, she was honored with a special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in Theatre.
In her memoir titled “Chita: A Memoir,” published in 2023, Rivera described herself as two personas: Chita and Dolores. She attributed her career success to Dolores, who she said had the courage and determination to make it in the industry.
Rising to Stardom
Rivera’s drive and talent propelled her to stardom, especially at a time when there were limited opportunities for Latinas in theater. Her breakthrough came with her role in “West Side Story,” and she went on to star in other popular shows such as “Bye Bye Birdie,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Chicago,” and “Kiss of the Spider Woman.”
In 2002, Rivera became the first Latina to receive the Kennedy Center Honors, recognizing her lifetime contributions to the performing arts. She was also awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009 by President Barack Obama for her role as an “agent of change.”
A Legacy Remembered
Condolences and tributes poured in on social media as news of Rivera’s passing spread. Fellow actress Rita Moreno, who played Anita in the film adaptation of “West Side Story,” expressed her admiration for Rivera and considered it an honor to be mistaken for her.
Actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth also expressed her admiration for Rivera, stating that she always looked up to her and considered her a “kick butt woman.” New York Governor Kathy Hochul praised Rivera’s trailblazing career and acknowledged her contributions to the performing arts.
Actor Jason Alexander, who worked alongside Rivera in the musical “The Rink,” described her as an extraordinary woman and one of the best colleagues he had ever known. Actress Mia Farrow also eulogized Rivera, calling her “authentic” and “magnificent.”
Chita Rivera’s legacy as a Broadway icon and trailblazer will always be remembered. Her contributions to the performing arts industry have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations of performers.
