Kiki Shepard, co-host of “Showtime at the Apollo,” has died. She was 74 years old.
The beloved co-host of the iconic music show passed away on Monday in Los Angeles after suffering a “massive” and “totally unexpected” heart attack, her rep confirmed in a statement to the Daily Mail.
Born Chiquita Renee Shepherd in 1951 in Tyler, Texas, she began her career as a professional dancer in the 1970s, then starred on the legendary Fox variety show for 15 years and became a fixture in households across America.
Shepherd worked with Steve Harvey from 1987 to 2002, helping launch the careers of several well-known artists at the historic Harlem Theater.
Besides Harvey, Shepard co-hosted with celebrities such as Sinbad and Monique.
Nicknamed the “Apollo Queen of Fashion,” Shepard also appeared in scripted shows such as “NYPD Blue,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Everybody Hates Chris” and “Baywatch.”
As for movies, she appeared in “Dolls of Voodoo,” “A Rage in Harlem,” “Miss Evers’ Boys,” and “Blackjack Christmas.”
Shepard’s credits extended to Broadway, with performances in “Bubbling Brown Sugar,” “Reggae,” “My Arms Are Too Short to Enter the Box with God,” and “Porgy and Bess,” among others.
Following news of Shepard’s death, fans rushed to social media to pay their respects.
“Kiki Shepard left a timeless and deeply felt legacy,” BET wrote about X.
“Ah…Rest in peace Mrs. Shepherd,” added another voice. “I enjoyed your brightness and beauty.”
“Kiki Shepherd – a vision of loveliness,” a third person commented, adding a heart emoji.
