KiKi Shepard, the longtime host ofShowtime at the Apollo, has died. She was 74.
Shepard's rep confirmed to bothTMZand New York City'sABC7that she suffered a heart attack Monday.
"It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved KiKi Shepard, cherished Sister, Auntie, friend, and an unwavering advocate for those living with sickle cell disease," her family said in a statement on social media. "We thank everyone for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support during this incredibly difficult time."
Shepard appeared on the series between 1987 and 2002.
"For 15 years, KiKi brought grace, warmth, and joy into the homes of millions as the beloved Co-Host ofShowtime at the Apollo," her family continued. "She was also renowned as the Apollo Queen of Fashion and Ambassador of the show."
Entertainment Weeklyhas reached out to a rep for Shepard.
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BETshareda tributeto the TV personality, whom it described as a symbol of "elegance, glam, excellence, and cultural pride" during the 1980s, "a time where women of color were rarely centered on television."
"A Howard University graduate who finished in the top 10% of her class and a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Shepard carried the legacy of Black excellence with her wherever she went," BET's social media post read.
The network noted that before her stint onShowtime at the Apollo, Shepard "built an impressive career in the arts performing in Broadway productions likeBubbling Brown SugarandPorgy and Bess."
Shepard also acted, appearing in projects including the 1978 movieThe Wizand on TV shows such asA Different World(1991 and 1992),Baywatch(1993),NYPD Blue(2001 and 2002),Grey's Anatomy(2024), and more.
She advocated for those with sickle cell disease through theKIS Foundation, Inc., which she founded in 2006, to support families affected by the condition.
The organization's website notes that Shepard had spoken on behalf of the sick cell disease community at the White House during the Obama administration and at Howard University in Washington, D.C.
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