12 facts about Chita Rivera, the Broadway legend known for 'West Side Story' and 'Chicago'

Caralynn MatassaJan 31, 2024, 05:03 IST

Rivera accepting the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Tonys.Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions

Broadway star Chita Rivera died Tuesday at age 91, her daughter announced.
Rivera was a dancer and performer who originated the role of Anita in "West Side Story."

Chita Rivera, a Broadway legend who originated roles in beloved musicals like "West Side Story" and "Chicago," has died. She was 91.

Rivera's daughter, Lisa Mordente, announced the news of her mother's death, saying it happened on Tuesday after a brief illness.

Trained as a ballet dancer, Rivera became one of the most-nominated performers in the history of the Tony Awards throughout a decadeslong career that started when she was 19. Here's a look back at Rivera's life and legacy.

Chita Rivera was born Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero Anderson.

Rivera posing at her 90th birthday celebration in 2023.Bruce Glikas/Getty Images

Rivera trained as a ballerina.

Rivera was classically trained.Ted Streshinsky/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images

Rivera left ballet school when she got a part in "Call Me Madam."

Chita Rivera circa 1955.Pictorial Parade via Getty Images

Her breakthrough role was playing Anita in "West Side Story."

Rivera memorably played Anita in the original Broadway run of "West Side Story."John Springer Collection/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images

Rivera married a "West Side Story" dancer and had a daughter with him.

Rivera with her daughter, Lisa.Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

She played Rose in "Bye Bye Birdie" opposite Dick Van Dyke, earning her first Tony nomination.

Rivera and Van Dyke.Amanda Edwards/Getty Images)

She won her first Tony Award for "The Rink," which she starred in with Liza Minnelli.

Rivera and Minnelli.Bruce Glikas/FilmMagic

A car accident in 1986 almost ended her Broadway career.

Rivera was on crutches at the 1986 Tony Awards.Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

Rivera was the first Latina to receive a Kennedy Center Honor in 2002.

Rivera received the honor alongside other legends like Elizabeth Taylor and James Earl Jones.Mai/Getty Images

Her final Broadway role was in 'The Visit' in 2015.

Chita Rivera during the opening night curtain call for "The Visit."Walter McBride/Getty Images

Rivera received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Tonys.