Kiki Shepard

It’s hard to believe I’m writing this, trying to put into words the incredible life of Kiki Shepard. Born Chiquita Renee Shepard on January 1st, 1952, she truly lived up to the promise of a fresh start every single year. Most of the world knew her as the vibrant, quick-witted co-host of *Showtime at the Apollo* – and honestly, that was Kiki in a nutshell: bringing joy, energy, and a whole lot of sparkle to everything she did. But to those of us who loved her, she was so much more. She had this infectious laugh, a booming, joyful sound that could fill a room and instantly make you feel better. I remember one time, we were stuck in a terrible traffic jam heading to a show, and instead of getting frustrated, she started leading the car in a silly singalong, making up lyrics about the cars around us. That was Kiki – always finding the fun, even in the mundane. Kiki’s heart was as big as her personality. Family meant everything to her. She spoke often and with such pride about her parents and the values they instilled in her. She cherished her friendships, nurturing them with phone calls, handwritten notes (yes, she was a handwritten note person!), and just being *present*. She had a knack for making everyone feel seen and valued. She wasn’t just a host *on* television, she was a host *to* life, welcoming people in and making them feel comfortable. Beyond the stage, she loved gardening, filling her home with beautiful flowers and herbs. She was a surprisingly good cook, always experimenting with new recipes, and her annual holiday parties were legendary. She didn’t just introduce talent on *Showtime at the Apollo*; she championed it. She genuinely cared about the performers, offering encouragement and support. So many artists have shared stories about how Kiki believed in them when they were just starting out, giving them a platform and a confidence boost. She understood the power of that stage, and she used her position to uplift others. She had a real gift for connecting with people, and her warmth and genuine enthusiasm made *Showtime at the Apollo* feel like a celebration for everyone involved. Kiki left us far too soon on March 17th, 2026, after a sudden heart attack. The world feels a little dimmer without her light. But her spirit – that bright, joyful, generous spirit – will live on in all of us who were lucky enough to know and love her. She taught us to laugh often, to embrace life with open arms, and to always, always believe in the power of a good show. We’ll miss you terribly, Kiki.