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  "path": "/latest/kiki-shepard-iconic-showtime-at-the-apollo-co-host-dies-at-74/",
  "publishedAt": "2026-03-17T06:34:57.000Z",
  "site": "https://humenglish.com",
  "tags": [
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    "Latest",
    "Kiki Shepard, iconic ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ co-host, dies at 74",
    "HUM News"
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  "textContent": "Kiki Shepard, best known as the longtime co-host of _Showtime at the Apollo_ , has died at the age of 74, prompting tributes from fans and the entertainment community.\n\nShepard, who joined the famed Apollo Theatre stage in 1987, became a defining presence on the show, helping introduce new talent and welcoming major performers during its popular run.\n\nOften referred to as the “Queen of Apollo Fashion,” Shepard was known for her distinctive style and on-stage presence, appearing alongside a rotating lineup of hosts including Steve Harvey, Mo’Nique, Mark Curry and Sinbad.\n\nHer time on _Showtime at the Apollo_  ran until 2002, though she remained closely associated with the show in later years.\n\n## A career beyond ‘Apollo’\n\nBefore her television success, Shepard performed on Broadway in productions including _Porgy and Bess_  and _Your Arms Are Too Short to Box With God_.\n\nShe also made appearances in television series such as _A Different World_ , _Baywatch_ , _Everybody Hates Chris_  and _Grey’s Anatomy_.\n\n## Tributes pour in\n\nTributes have continued to emerge following news of her death, with friends and collaborators remembering her as a cultural figure and a source of support within the community.\n\nCelebrity hairstylist Elgin Charles described Shepard as “more than a cultural icon,” praising her grace and dedication to causes including sickle cell awareness.\n\n“She was the definition of genuine,” he said in a social media tribute.\n\nThe post Kiki Shepard, iconic ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ co-host, dies at 74 appeared first on HUM News.",
  "title": "Kiki Shepard, iconic ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ co-host, dies at 74"
}