Renowned Broadway performer Chita Rivera has passed away at the age of 91, according to her rep, Merle Frimark, for the NBCNews  story.

Rivera, of Puerto Rican heritage, has had an illustrious and enduring career, playing iconic roles in productions such as “West Side Story”, “Chicago”, and “Kiss of the Spider Woman”. Her daughter, Lisa Mordente, announced that Rivera died after a brief illness in New York.

Chita Rivera is remembered for her significant contribution to Broadway, receiving praise from audiences and critics alike. She was one of the few performers to make her mark on the show virtually every decade, standing out as a “triple threat” in the theater industry, according to the publication.

Rivera's importance as a Latino figure on Broadway is highlighted, especially considering the traditional dearth of opportunities for Latino performers in commercial theater. Rivera has been nominated for a Tony Award 10 times, winning for her performances in “The Rink” (1984) and “Kiss of the Spider Woman” (1993), as well as receiving a special Tony for lifetime achievement in 2018.

Even in her later years, Chita Rivera remained active and involved, supporting diverse charitable causes, including Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and relief efforts for Puerto Rico. In 2002, she became the first Hispanic woman to receive the Kennedy Center Honor, and in 2009, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama.

Rivera has influenced and inspired generations of Latino artists, both on stage and screen. Even in 2021, she hosted the PBS New Year's special and released her memoir titled “Chita: A Memoir” last year, according to the publication.

Chita Rivera leaves a lasting legacy, being remembered for her extraordinary contribution to Broadway and as an inspirational figure to the Latino community.