Overview
- Shepard died March 16 in Los Angeles after a massive heart attack, according to her representative.
- ABC7 reported her family confirmed her death in a statement thanking supporters and praising her advocacy and grace.
- She co-hosted Showtime at the Apollo from 1987 to 2002 with a rotating lineup of emcees and became known as the 'Apollo Queen of Fashion.'
- Her career spanned Broadway, film, and television, including roles in A Different World, Baywatch, Grey's Anatomy, and Miss Evers' Boys.
- She founded The K.I.S. Foundation to support sickle cell awareness as tributes from Elgin Charles, Loni Love, BET, and others highlighted her cultural impact.