Legendary Showtime at the Apollo co-host Kiki Shepard dies at 74
Kiki Shepard, the iconic co-host of Showtime at the Apollo, has passed away.
TMZ reports that LaShirl Smith, Kiki’s representative, confirmed she suffered a massive heart attack in Los Angeles on Monday.
“Her passing was completely unexpected,” Smith said.
Kiki Shepard always had class, always had style, and she brought that undeniable energy to Showtime at the Apollo. Every Saturday night, people sat in awe, watching her glide across the stage, wondering which incredible outfit she’d chosen for the night.
She set the tone, she owned the stage, and truly… she was the best to ever do it, according to many of her fans.
From the pine forests of East Texas to the palm-lined cliffs of California, Kiki Shepard always saw herself destined for the spotlight.
She started performing as a dancer internationally in 1971. While studying at Howard University, she became a founding member of the D.C. Repertory Dance Company.
The Texas-born television host became a household name to millions as she shared the stage with Steve Harvey on Showtime at the Apollo from 1987 to 2002, introducing countless aspiring performers at the legendary Harlem theater.
Over the years, she continued to shine on TV, appearing on fan favorites like A Different World, Baywatch, Baywatch Nights, NYPD Blue, Everybody Hates Chris, Grey’s Anatomy, and Mind Your Business.
She also appeared on the big screen in Blackjack Christmas.
Her talents weren’t limited to the small screen. Kiki made her mark on Broadway with unforgettable performances in Bubbling Brown Sugar, Reggae, Your Arms Too Short to Box With God, and Porgy and Bess.
She was 74. RIP KiKi 💔