Condolences: Irene Cara, ’80s Pop Star Behind ‘Fame’ and ‘Flashdance’ Theme Songs, Dies at 63

Via Irene Cara Instagram Page

Legendary Entertainer Irene Cara Dies At Age 63

The dynamically talented Irene Cara has passed away at age 63.

In a statement released on Friday (Nov. 25), her publicist Judith A. Moose shared,

“It is with profound sadness that on behalf of her family I announce the passing of Irene Cara. The Academy Award Winning actress, singer, songwriter, and producer, passed away in her Florida home. Her cause of death is currently unknown and will be released when information is available.”

She continued,

“Irene’s family has requested privacy as they process their grief. She was a beautifully gifted soul, whose legacy will live forever through her music and films. Funeral services are pending and a memorial service for her fans will be planned at a future date.”

The native New Yorker leaves behind a legacy in entertainment that is iconic. In films such as Sparkle, Aaron Loves Angela, and Fame, she provided much-needed representation of black and brown girls on the big screen.

During the 80s, Irene Cara “sparkled” and shaped the sound of the era with her hits “Flashdance…What a Feeling” and “Fame”. Both songs earned her prestigious award nominations. In 1980, Irene Cara was nominated for two Grammys after “Fame,” for Best New Artist and Best Female Pop Vocal Artist. Four years later, she won a Grammy and an Academy Award with her title track to “Flashdance,” the film starring Jennifer Beals as an aspiring dancer.

The actress paid tribute to the songwriter in this post,

Prior to mainstream success, Irene Cara was a child prodigy who played piano by ear, sang, danced, and acted. Her talent led to roles on the former daytime soap “Love of Life” and the educational series “The Electric Company”. An early clip of Irene’s performance can be seen here.

Since the news of her death came out, condolences have poured in from those who knew and loved her,

Our prayers go out to her family. RIP Irene Cara.

[VIA 1,2]