Actor Hinton Battle, renowned for his role in Dreamgirls, has regrettably passed away at the age of 67.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the screen and stage actor passed away on Tuesday (January 30) at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California.
His passing was confirmed by his longtime friend Debbie Allen, who shared on Instagram: “Today I honor Hinton Battle, my dear friend who left us to dance and sing in God’s Ensemble last night. He fought this battle to live and be creative, impacting audiences and young people across the globe. Let us always hold him high in our hearts and in our mind’s eye, and forever speak his name.”
A representative for Battle’s family also informed the publication that the late actor passed away after battling a lengthy illness, although they chose not to disclose his cause of death.
Hinton Battle passed away at the age of 67. Credit: John Lamparski / Getty
Born in 1956, the Broadway icon began his journey by studying at the prestigious Jones Haywood School of Ballet in Washington, D.C., and later at the School of American Ballet in New York City. His stage career commenced at the age of 15 when he portrayed the Scarecrow in The Wiz (1975).
Over a span of three decades, his career on the New York stage flourished, culminating in three Tony Awards for his performances in Sophisticated Ladies (1981), The Tap Dance Kid (1984), and Miss Saigon (1991). Additionally, he graced the stages of musical productions such as Chicago, Dreamgirls, and Dancin’.
Aside from his stage endeavors, Battle ventured into the realms of film and television, showcasing his talent in movies like Child Star: The Shirley Temple Story and Foreign Student. His television repertoire boasts appearances in notable shows such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Smash, and Touched by an Angel.
Moreover, the actor demonstrated his versatility as a choreographer, lending his talents to prestigious events like the Academy Awards and Golden Globes, as well as projects including the OutKast musical Idlewild, Dancing With the Stars, and various others.
Additionally, in 2017, he founded the Hinton Battle Dance Academy, dedicated to grooming aspiring talents for successful careers in the entertainment industry.
Hinton starred in Dreamgirls alongside Jennifer Hudson. Credit: Bruce Glikas / Contributor Getty
Battle is primarily recognized for his role as Wayne, a salesman at Curtis’ Cadillac dealership who evolves into Rainbow Records’ inaugural producer, in the 2006 movie musical Dreamgirls.
His co-star Jennifer Hudson spearheaded the tributes to the late star on X (formerly known as Twitter), fondly recalling him and Chita Rivera, another actor who passed away this week, as “Broadway icons”.
“We lost two irreplaceable Broadway icons this week. Chita Rivera and Hinton Battle!” Hudson penned. “I’ll always be grateful for their unique artistry and impact and the way our lives intersected! Rest well, legends!”
We lost two irreplaceable Broadway icons this week. Chita Rivera and Hinton Battle ! I’ll always be grateful for their unique artistry and impact and the way our lives intersected! Rest well, legends! pic.twitter.com/0qbqkFT7x5
— Jennifer Hudson (@IAMJHUD) January 31, 2024
Actress and singer Stephanie Mills, renowned for her portrayal of Dorothy in The Wiz, also honored her co-star’s memory, writing: “My Dear Scarecrow, Mr. Hinton Battle, words cannot express how I feel. You’ve joined the heavenly cast. I will miss you forever. I loved you then, now, and forever. Rest babe, job well done. Until we meet again.”
The Tony Awards’ official page also posted a touching video highlighting Battle’s achievements, expressing: “In fond memory of the legendary Tony Award winner, Hinton Battle. His unmatched talent and vibrant spirit will be greatly missed, yet his legacy continues to resonate in the hearts of those touched by his extraordinary brilliance.”
Battle is survived by his sisters, Eddie and Lettie.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
