Kiki Shepard, best known as the long-time co-host of Showtime at the Apollo, has died at the age of 74. The entertainer passed away following a heart attack in Los Angeles on Monday, according to her representative. Her death was described as unexpected.
Shepard co-hosted the iconic talent show from 1987 to 2002, working alongside Steve Harvey, Sinbad, Mo'Nique, and others. She was known as the 'Apollo Queen of Fashion' and helped introduce aspiring performers at the historic Harlem theatre. Her television credits also include appearances on A Different World, Baywatch, NYPD Blue, and Grey's Anatomy.
Born Chiquita Renee Shepard in Tyler, Texas, in July 1951, she attended Emmett Scott High School and later Howard University, where she became a charter member of the D.C. Repertory Dance Company. Her career began in the early 1970s as a professional dancer, performing globally. She also appeared on Broadway in productions such as Bubbling Brown Sugar and Porgy and Bess, and had film roles in A Rage in Harlem and Miss Evers' Boys.
Fans paid tribute on social media, with one writing on X: 'What a legend. May her soul rest in peace.' Another said: 'Rest in peace, Kiki Shepard. A true icon of Showtime at the Apollo—she will be deeply missed.'
