Hinton Battle, the esteemed Tony-winning performer known for originating the role of The Scarecrow in Broadway’s The Wiz, has passed away at the age of 67. The actor, director, producer, and choreographer died on Tuesday morning at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles after battling a lengthy illness. While the cause of his death remains undisclosed, his family has chosen to respect his privacy in this matter.
A Legacy of Talent and Achievement
Born in 1956, Hinton Battle began his remarkable journey in the world of performing arts at the young age of 15 when he made his Broadway debut in the original production of The Wiz. This was just the beginning of a career that spanned over three decades, during which Battle solidified his status as a Broadway icon. He won three Tony Awards for his outstanding performances in Sophisticated Ladies (1981), The Tap Dance Kid (1984), and Miss Saigon (1991). Additionally, he was honored with an NAACP Image Award and received nominations from the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and Critics Choice for his ensemble work in the 2007 movie musical Dreamgirls.
Battle’s contributions to the stage were not limited to Broadway. He also made notable appearances in off-Broadway productions and showcased his talents in various shows, including Dancin’, Dreamgirls, Chicago, and Ragtime. His versatility extended beyond the theater, as he ventured into television and film. Battle made appearances in productions such as Dreamgirls, Smash, Quantum Leap, Touched by an Angel, and Buffy The Vampire Slayer, leaving an indelible mark in each performance. One of his memorable works was as a jazz demon in the fan-favorite musical episode of Buffy The Vampire Slayer, titled “Once More, With Feeling.” Battle not only acted in the episode but also choreographed the mesmerizing dance sequences.
A Teacher and Inspiration
Hinton Battle’s passion for the performing arts extended beyond his personal achievements. In 2017, he founded the Hinton Battle Dance Academy (HBDA), an institution dedicated to preparing aspiring artists for careers in the entertainment industry. Through his academy, Battle nurtured young talent, passing on his knowledge and inspiring future generations of performers. He was also in the process of writing his autobiography and a children’s book, which had been selected for the Microsoft Legacy Project Virtual Museum’s Black History Month 2022 Experience.
Farewell to a Talented Soul
Hinton Battle’s contributions to the entertainment industry were widely recognized, earning him numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. His talent, creativity, and dedication to the craft left an indelible mark on both the stage and screen. As we bid farewell to this exceptional artist, let us remember the joy he brought to audiences worldwide and the inspiration he provided to aspiring performers.
Hinton Battle is survived by his sisters, Eddie and Lettie.
FAQs
What was the cause of Hinton Battle’s death?
While Hinton Battle’s cause of death has not been disclosed, his family has chosen to keep this information private, respecting his wishes and privacy.
What were Hinton Battle’s most notable achievements?
Hinton Battle’s remarkable career included originating the role of The Scarecrow in Broadway’s The Wiz and winning three Tony Awards for his outstanding performances in Sophisticated Ladies, The Tap Dance Kid, and Miss Saigon. He also made notable contributions to television and film and was the founder of the Hinton Battle Dance Academy.
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