Nationwide — Kiki Shepard, greatest referred to as the co-host of Showtime on the Apollo, has died at 74 after a coronary heart assault. She constructed an enduring legacy on tv, the stage, and thru her work advocating for sickle cell illness.
Shepard’s profession spanned many years, from Broadway within the Nineteen Seventies and 80s to visitor appearances on exhibits like A Totally different World and Baywatch. She grew to become a family identify whereas co-hosting Showtime on the Apollo from 1987 to 2002, sharing the stage with Steve Harvey, Sinbad, and Mo’Nique. The present, filmed at Harlem’s well-known Apollo Theater, showcased each rising expertise and established stars.
Household and associates remembered her as a vibrant, sleek presence. “When she walked right into a room, all eyes had been on her,” Billy Mitchell, Apollo Theater Ambassador and longtime pal, advised ABC 7. Shepard’s heat, humor, and distinctive Tyler, Texas accent made her immediately memorable, each on stage and behind the scenes.
Outdoors of leisure, Shepard devoted herself to serving to others. She based The KIS Basis in 2006 to assist households affected by sickle cell illness, elevating consciousness and offering assets. Her household described her as “a tireless champion and a supply of inspiration” whose compassion touched numerous lives.
Her presence on stage and display screen made her a well-recognized and beloved determine in leisure. Followers keep in mind her for the attraction she introduced to each look and the heat she shared with audiences.
