Kiki Shepard, entertainer and longtime co-host of ‘Showtime at the Apollo,’ dies at 74

by

Kiki Shepard, the actress and entertainer famous for co-hosting the popular television show “Showtime at the Apollo,” has passed away at the age of 74.

LaShirl Smith, representing the actor, confirmed his death on Tuesday, sharing in an Instagram post that she was deeply saddened by the loss. According to Smith, who also told TMZ, the actor died Monday in Los Angeles after a heart attack. Smith honored him with a video collage of their memories, expressing how much she will miss their frequent, hours-long conversations.

“Rest easy cousin, heaven got a good one,” Smith said in her post.

Born in Texas in July 1951, Keisha Shepard was a beloved co-host of “Showtime at the Apollo” for fifteen years, from 1987 to 2002. She worked alongside hosts like Steve Harvey, Sinbad, and Mo’Nique, introducing many talented performers at the famous Harlem theater. The Apollo paid tribute to Shepard on Tuesday, calling her a “true legend” of the venue.

Entertainment & Arts

Judy Pace, a pioneering model and actress known for her roles in blaxploitation films and television throughout the 1960s and 70s—including a memorable appearance in the TV movie “Brian’s Song”—passed away last week.

The theater shared on Instagram that its hosts brought the energy of its famous stage into homes nationwide, showcasing new talent, honoring established stars, and allowing millions to experience the feeling of Harlem no matter where they were. They emphasized that the theater has always been a hub for celebrating Black achievement.

Beyond being a beloved host, Charmaine Shepard was a versatile entertainer with credits in popular TV shows like “Baywatch,” “A Different World,” “NYPD Blue,” and “Grey’s Anatomy.” She also worked as a choreographer and had a small role in the movie “The Wiz.” Shepard was a graduate of both North Texas State University and Howard University.

She has appeared in several TV shows, including “Thunder in Paradise,” “Baywatch Nights,” “Family Law,” and “Everybody Hates Chris,” as well as the upcoming 2025 series “Highly Favored.” In addition to her television work, she has performed on Broadway in productions like “Bubbling Brown Sugar,” “Reggae,” and “Porgy and Bess.”

In addition to her career as a performer, Shepard was a passionate advocate for sickle cell anemia awareness, especially after losing a friend to the disease. She established the Kis Foundation in 2006 to provide support for people with sickle cell disease and their families, building on years of previous work in this area.

Music

Lord Sear, a well-known DJ and radio host who often collaborated with Eminem on his Shade 45 channel, has passed away at the age of 52.

According to a statement released to ABC7, KiKi believed in the power of kindness, strong communities, and learning to improve people’s lives. She gave a voice to many who felt ignored, and her work provided long-term support, opportunities, and understanding for those affected by this illness.

Sherri Shepherd, the daytime talk show host, remembered the popular performer from “Showtime at the Apollo” as someone who always brought energy and warmth to any gathering.

Sherri Shepherd shared on Instagram that she was heartbroken by Kiki’s passing, but also celebrated the full and vibrant life Kiki lived.

“Your love of God was evident and I know you are having a ball up there,” she added.

Mo’Nique and Jackée Harry paid tribute to Shepard on Instagram, with Harry writing, “Rest easy, my dear sweet friend. I’ll always remember you.”

Read More

2026-03-18 02:01