Renowned dancer and former artistic director Judith Jamison has passed away at the age of 81. She died on November 9, 2024, surrounded by close friends, following a brief illness, according to reports.
Judith Jamison Dies at 81
Judith Jamison, a Philadelphia native born on May 10, 1943, began her dance training at just six years old. Her journey with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater started in 1965, where she gained fame and recognition as a performer. She danced with the company for 15 years, later expanding her career with guest appearances and Broadway performances.
In 1989, Jamison returned to Alvin Ailey, but this time in a different role—as Artistic Director. She led the company for two decades, during which she brought her artistic vision to life and inspired countless dancers and audiences. Her contributions to dance earned her numerous honors, including a Primetime Emmy Award and an American Choreography Award for her work on the PBS documentary A Hymn for Alvin Ailey.
In a past interview, Jamison reflected on the challenges of aging as a dancer, sharing that while some things change with age, she continued to love and embrace dance. Christopher Zunner, a spokesperson for Ailey, expressed gratitude for Jamison’s talent and light, which he said “inspired us all.”
Jamison’s legacy lives on through the dancers she mentored and the audiences who admired her passion and dedication to the art of dance.
