It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Hilton Battle, a Tony-winning performer and esteemed Broadway actor. Battle, who was 67 years old, left this world on Tuesday morning at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles after a prolonged illness. While his family has chosen to withhold the specific cause of his death, his remarkable legacy as a multi-talented artist will endure.
Battle's impressive career began with his Broadway debut in the original production of 'The Wiz' at a young age of 15. This marked the start of a fruitful journey in the world of theater, where he would go on to make significant contributions and earn recognition for his exceptional talent. He received three Tony Awards, all in the category of featured actor in a musical, for his remarkable performances in 'Sophisticated Ladies' (1981), 'The Tap Dance Kid' (1984), and 'Miss Saigon' (1991). Additionally, he was honored with an NAACP Image Award, SAG and Critics Choice nominations, and an ensemble nomination for his role in the movie musical 'Dreamgirls' (2007).
Born in 1956, Battle honed his craft through extensive training at the prestigious Jones Haywood School of Ballet in Washington, D.C. and the School of American Ballet in New York City. Over the course of three decades, he graced Broadway stages, capturing hearts with his talent in productions such as 'Dancin',' 'Dreamgirls,' 'Chicago,' and 'Ragtime.' Battle's contribution to the off-Broadway scene was equally significant, including notable appearances in 'Respect, the Musical' and his role as co-director and choreographer in 'Evil Dead The Musical.' More recently, he starred in the production of 'Cindy: The Musical.'
Battle's artistic journey extended beyond the stage, as he ventured into the world of television and film. Notable television appearances include 'Dreamgirls,' 'Smash,' 'These Old Broads,' 'Quantum Leap,' 'Touched by an Angel,' and the beloved series 'Buffy The Vampire Slayer,' where he had a memorable role in the fan-favorite musical episode 'Once More, with Feeling.' Battle also showcased his choreography skills in various projects, including the 65th and 66th Academy Awards, the Outkast musical 'Idlewild,' Bolden, and 'Child Star: The Shirley Temple Story.'
In 2017, Battle launched the Hinton Battle Dance Academy (HBDA), a professional entertainment academy aimed at preparing aspiring students for successful careers in the entertainment industry. He was deeply committed to nurturing young talent and sharing his wealth of knowledge. Additionally, Battle was working on his autobiography and a children's book, which was recently selected for the Microsoft Legacy Project Virtual Museum's Black History Month 2022 Experience.
Throughout his career, Battle received numerous prestigious awards, including the Midtown International Theatre Festival Award, the Fred Astaire Award, the Ira Aldridge Award, the Planet Connection Award, the 2012 Champion of the Arts Award from Big Boi's 'Antwan Patton' Big Kidz Foundation, and the Amas 2014 Rosie Award for Lifetime Achievement in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the theatrical arts.
Aside from his remarkable achievements, Battle was deeply loved and respected by his family. He is survived by his sisters, Eddie and Lettie Battle, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. His passing leaves behind a void in the entertainment industry, but his legacy as a talented performer, director, producer, and choreographer will continue to inspire future generations of artists.
Hilton Battle will always be remembered for his immense talent, boundless creativity, and unwavering passion for his craft. The theater community and fans worldwide mourn the loss of a true icon who touched the hearts and souls of all who had the privilege to witness his incredible contributions to the arts.
