Renowned Broadway performer Hinton Battle, celebrated for his unforgettable roles in classics such as “The Wiz” and “Dreamgirls,” has passed away at the age of 67. 

Battle died on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, after a long illness. While confirming Battle’s passing, his spokesperson declined to disclose the specific cause.

Hinton Battle’s illustrious career was marked by his exceptional talent, showcased through his memorable portrayal of Wayne, a car salesman turned producer for Rainbow Records in “Dreamgirls.” This role garnered him nominations for both SAG and Critics Choice awards. Battle’s performance in the 2006 film version featured him acting alongside stars such as Jennifer Hudson, Jamie Foxx, and Eddie Murphy.

His role in “The Wiz” cemented Battle’s status as a Broadway legend. 

Making his debut at 18, Battle stepped in for the lead actor and subsequently never looked back. 

His contributions to the world of theater were recognized with three Tony Awards, all in the category of Featured Actor in a Musical for his roles in “Miss Saigon” (1991), “The Tap Dance Kid” (1984), and  “Sophisticated Ladies” (1981), making him the only performer to achieve this distinction three times.

Following Battle’s passing, the theater community expressed an outpouring of tributes. 

Jennifer Hudson, Battle’s co-star in “Dreamgirls,” remembered him as a “Broadway icon” and also took a moment to honor Chita Rivera, another stage veteran who passed away the same week. 

Stephanie Mills, who played Dorothy alongside Battle’s Scarecrow in “The Wiz,” shared her deep feelings of loss and admiration for Battle on Instagram.

The Tony Awards organization honored Battle’s stellar career by sharing a clip of his 1981 acceptance speech, highlighting his “unparalleled talent and infectious energy” and acknowledging how his legacy will continue to inspire.

Born in 1956 in West Germany and raised in Washington D.C. and New York City, Battle was a multifaceted artist: an actor, singer, dancer, and dance instructor. 

Beyond Broadway, his talents shone in various films and television shows, including appearances in the sci-fi series “Quantum Leap” and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” 

His choreographic skills were also in demand in films, television shows, and awards ceremonies. At the time of his death, he was working on an autobiography.

Battle’s journey from a trained ballet dancer to a Broadway sensation began with his debut in “The Wiz” in January 1975. 

Originally auditioning for a chorus position, he replaced Stu Gilliam, who fell ill during a pre-Broadway tryout, in the lead role. This marked the beginning of a career that saw Battle redefine the boundaries of musical theater with his dynamic performances and innovative contributions to dance.

He is survived by his sisters Lettie and Eddie.