Kiki Shepard, 'Showtime at the Apollo' Co-Host, Dies at 74

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Kiki Shepard, who co-hosted the long-running variety show 'Showtime at the Apollo' from 1987 to 2002, died on Monday at the age of 74 from a heart attack. Shepard was known as the 'Apollo Queen of Fashion' during her time on the show, which featured live performances from both professional and up-and-coming musical acts.

Why it matters

Shepard was a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, co-hosting one of the most iconic variety shows in television history. Her passing marks the end of an era for 'Showtime at the Apollo' and the loss of a trailblazing performer who helped showcase emerging talent on the legendary Apollo Theater stage.

The details

During her time as co-host of 'Showtime at the Apollo' alongside a rotating cast of emcees, Shepard also had recurring roles in shows like 'A Different World' and 'Baywatch.' Her other TV credits include 'Lady Boss,' 'Thunder in Paradise,' 'Baywatch Nights,' 'NYPD Blue' and 'Family Law.' Shepard's film credits include 'A Rage in Harlem,' 'Miss Evers' Boys,' 'Dolls of Voodoo' and 'Blackjack Christmas.' In the late '70s and early '80s, she was also part of the ensemble cast of several Broadway productions.

• Kiki Shepard co-hosted 'Showtime at the Apollo' from 1987 to 2002.
• Shepard died on Monday, March 17, 2026.