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The bright lights of Broadway dimmed a bit this week with the news of Clifton Oliver's passing. A renowned actor from New York City, Oliver graced stages with remarkable performances in the legendary musicals “Wicked,” “The Lion King,” “In the Heights,” and more.
At the age of 47, he died on Wednesday, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy. The tragic news was confirmed on social media by Oliver's sister, Roxy Hall. She poignantly described her brother's final moments: “My baby brother, Clifton Oliver, has had his final curtain call.
It was peaceful. His partner Richard was singing to him the song Psalm 23 as he took his last breath. He had a gorgeous smile on his beautiful face! He went twirling into the afterlife ready to make his grand appearance as the star of his homecoming celebration”.
Oliver's Illness Remains Undisclosed
Hall also expressed gratitude for the precious time she spent at Oliver's bedside during the last weeks of his life. Though Oliver had been reported ill by People and other media outlets, the exact cause of his death remains undisclosed.
A Jacksonville, Florida native, Oliver attended the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts before moving to New York in 2010. His theater career soared when he joined the ensemble of Broadway's “Wicked,” and later understudied the principal role of Fiyero.
In the same year, he portrayed Benny in “In the Heights,” a role originated by Christopher Jackson. Perhaps most notably, Oliver's portrayal of Simba in “The Lion King” in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and eventually Broadway earned him immense acclaim.
His other Broadway credits include “Rent,” “Kinky Boots,” and “Motown the Musical”. The New York theater community and fellow actors shared heartfelt tributes. Carla Renata, Oliver's co-star in “The Lion King,” said, “This one really hurts.
Shine on #cliftonoliver”. Public relations representative Rogelio Torre added, “Rest in peace Clifton...it was an honour knowing and sharing love to the theatre with you, what a talent you had”. In a 2016 YouTube interview with Hero News, Oliver revealed the source of his relentless drive, stating, “I love what I do, and the fact that I get to perform for people and do something I love just keeps me motivated and inspired.
That's how I'm constantly able to keep myself going”. Oliver's passing leaves a void in the world of theater. His vibrant presence, extraordinary talent, and genuine love for his craft will surely resonate with those who were touched by his performances.
As the curtain falls on his remarkable career, Clifton Oliver's star continues to shine in the memories of those who admired and loved him.
