Clifton Oliver, a Broadway actor who has appeared in productions including The Lion King, Wicked and In the Heights, has died. He was 47. Oliver was reportedly battling an undisclosed illness. His death was announced by his sister Roxy Hall via a Facebook post on Wednesday.
“My baby brother, Clifton Oliver, has had his final curtain call,” she wrote. “It was peaceful. His partner Richard, was singing to him the song Psalm 23 as he took his last breath this morning at 3:20 AM.”
Oliver began his Broadway career in New York City in 2010 after studying at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts in Jacksonville, Florida. He was a member of Wicked’s ensemble and served as an understudy for the role of Fiyero. He also had a replacement role as Benny for In The Heights’ run that included Jordin Sparks in the cast.
In 2011, Oliver played Simba in the Broadway production of The Lion King. He previously portrayed the same role in the show’s Las Vegas run, and was also part of the musical’s national tour. Oliver’s other theatrical credits include Bella: An American Tall Tale, Miracle Brothers, Dreamgirls and Motown the Musical.
Oliver’s passing is a great loss to the Broadway community and he will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
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