KiKi Shepard, who co-hosted the “Showtime at the Apollo” variety show for 15 years, has died, according to a statement Tuesday from her family and charity organization. She was 74.
“KiKi’s light, compassion, and purpose will continue to shine through all those whose lives she touched,” the statement said.
A representative for Shepard told NBC News she died Monday after suffering a heart attack.
Shepard was originally a Texas native with a degree from Howard University in Washington. While attending classes at the historically Black university, Shepard also became a member of the D.C. Repertory Dance Company.
It helped her begin her career in the industry in the 1970s, appearing as an ensemble dancer in Broadway shows such as “Comin’ Uptown” and “Reggae.” She would go on to share stages with actors Gregory Hines and Sheryl Lee Ralph.
But it was in the 1980s when Shepard appeared on television screens all across the country with “Showtime at the Apollo.” She was part of a revolving cast of hosts for the variety hour, which showcased performers at Harlem’s historic Apollo Theater.
Shepard also guest starred on multiple popular television shows over the years, according to her IMDB profile. The Texas native appeared on episodes of “Everybody Hates Chris,” “A Different Life,” “NYPD Blue,” and most recently a 2024 episode of “Grey’s Anatomy.”
Outside of her work in the television industry, Shepard dedicated her life to raising awareness and advocacy for those suffering from sickle cell disease. The inspiration for her organization, The K.I.S. Foundation, came after watching her close friend’s brother deal with the disease.
“The strong desire to combat my shared grief and sense of helplessness led me to offer my services to the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Inc.,” Shepard wrote in a letter on the foundation’s website.
Shepard’s family said that her greatest passion was service, as exemplified by the last 20 years of work with her foundation.
“KiKi believed that compassion, community, and education could change lives,” the family statement said. “Her voice uplifted countless individuals who often felt unseen, and her work created lasting pathways for hope, resources, and understanding for those living with this disease.”
Shepard is survived by her sister, two nieces and nephew, who described her as a “guiding light” with endless generosity. They thanked those who offered love and support following Shepard’s death.
“We are heartbroken by this loss, but we remain committed to continuing the mission she built with such love and determination,” the family said.
Bailey Howell and Daniel Arkin contributed.
