Kiki Shepard, Actress and Showtime at the Apollo Cohost, Dies at Age 74

The TV personality was beloved for her work in television and film, as well as her advocacy

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:05pm

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Kiki Shepard, the longtime cohost of the TV show Showtime at the Apollo, has died at the age of 74 after suffering a heart attack. Shepard was known for her signature sense of humor and style, and was celebrated for her advocacy work on behalf of the sickle cell community.

Why it matters

Shepard was a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, having co-hosted the iconic Showtime at the Apollo program for 15 years. Her passing is a significant loss for the entertainment community, as well as the sickle cell advocacy community that she championed.

The details

Kiki Shepard, whose full name was Chiquita Renee Shepard, died on Monday, March 16 after suffering a massive heart attack. She was 74 years old. Shepard co-hosted Showtime at the Apollo from 1987 to 2002, alongside hosts like Steve Harvey and Sinbad. She was known for her signature sense of humor and style, and was celebrated as the 'Apollo Queen of Fashion'. In addition to her work on the Apollo, Shepard was also an actress and voice actor, with credits including A Different World, Baywatch, and NYPD Blue.

  • Kiki Shepard co-hosted Showtime at the Apollo from 1987 to 2002.
  • Shepard died on Monday, March 16, 2026 after suffering a heart attack.

The players

Kiki Shepard

A TV personality who was the longtime cohost of the Showtime at the Apollo program. She was beloved for her signature sense of humor and style, and was also an actress and voice actor.

Steve Harvey

One of the hosts that Kiki Shepard co-hosted Showtime at the Apollo with during her 15-year tenure on the program.

Sinbad

Another host that Kiki Shepard co-hosted Showtime at the Apollo with during her 15-year tenure on the program.

Elgin Charles

Shepard's hairstylist and close friend, who penned a tribute to her following her passing.

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What they’re saying

“It is with a heavy, shattered heart that I process the sudden passing of my dear friend, the legendary Kiki Shepard. To lose a light so bright without warning feels like a theft of time, leaving an ache that words can barely touch.”

— Elgin Charles, Hairstylist and friend (X)

The takeaway

Kiki Shepard's passing is a significant loss for the entertainment industry and the sickle cell advocacy community that she championed. Her legacy as a beloved television personality and champion for important causes will continue to inspire those who were touched by her work and spirit.