It has been announced that musician Irene Cara has died.
Best known for singing and co-writing the theme tune to the 1983 film ‘Flashdance’, she won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for her work on the track, titled ‘Flashdance... What a Feeling’. She also portrayed Coco Hernandez in the 1980 musical film ‘Fame’.
News of Cara’s death was announced on her official Twitter account. Her publicist Judith Moose also confirmed the news. A cause of death is not yet known.
The message, shared on social media, 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.”
“Irene’s family has requested privacy as they process their grief,” the message continued. “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 also known for her lead role in the 1976 musical drama Sparkle.
Her performance in Fame resulted in a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress, while her famous Flashdance song also won her two Grammy awards: for Best Album of Original Score Written for a Motion Picture or A Television Special (shared with the other songwriters) and for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
She was 65.
