Irene Cara, the singer and actress best known for singing the iconic theme songs from classic 1980s films Fame and Flashdance, has died. She was 63.
Cara’s publicist, Judith A. Moose, confirmed the news of her death in a statement shared on the singer’s Twitter account early this morning. “This is the absolute worst part of being a publicist,” she wrote. “I can’t believe I’ve had to write this, let alone release the news. Please share your thoughts and memories of Irene. I’ll be reading each and every one of them and know she’ll be smiling from Heaven. She adored her fans.”
The official statement read, “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.”
This is the absolute worst part of being a publicist. I can't believe I've had to write this, let alone release the news. Please share your thoughts and memories of Irene. I'll be reading each and every one of them and know she'll be smiling from Heaven. She adored her fans. - JM pic.twitter.com/TsC5BwZ3fh
— Irene Cara (@Irene_Cara) November 26, 2022
“Irene’s family has requested privacy as they process their grief,” she added. “She was a beautifully gifted soul whose legacy will live forever through her music and films. Funeral services are pending and a memorial for her fans will be planned at a future date.
Cara was best known for her title track in the 1980 film Fame, as well as co-writing and singing the smash hit “Flashdance… What a Feeling,” from Flashdance, for which she won an Oscar and a Grammy.