Kiki Shepard, the co-host of the variety show Showtime at the Apollo, has passed away. Her family confirmed that she died suddenly on Monday following a heart attack. She was 74.
Born Chiquita Renee Shepard, she became a household name during her tenure on the nationally syndicated Showtime at the Apollo from 1987 to 2002. Known for her vibrant stage presence, she shared the spotlight with a rotating cast of comedians who hosted the show, including Sinbad, Mo’Nique, and Steve Harvey.
Beyond her signature role at the Apollo, Shepard enjoyed an acting career. Her television credits included guest appearances on A Different World, Baywatch, NYPD Blue, and Grey’s Anatomy. Before transitioning to the screen, Shepard established herself as a on Broadway, performing in productions of Bubbling Brown Sugar, Your Arms Too Short to Box With God, and Porgy and Bess.
Shepard remained active in the community until her passing. She was most recently honored on March 8 at the International Women’s Day Gospel Brunch held at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles.
Funeral arrangements are currently pending.