Ken Page has died aged 70.
The legendary Broadway star, best known for his work on Cats and The Nightmare Before Christmas, has tragically passed away.
The news was announced by one of the star's friends, Dorian Hannaway, who took to Facebook to write: "Ken Page has passed onto the next show. My heart is broken."
Page's agent, Lance Kirkland, also confirmed the news via TMZ that the actor passed away "very peacefully" in his home in St. Louis on Monday. It was said that the star went to sit in his chair and fell asleep and didn't wake up.
"He was a beautiful, talented man who was larger than life. Ken was loved and adored by so many and will be missed so much," Kirkland added.
Since the news was announced, tributes have been pouring in for the late performer, with many left devastated that yet another Broadway talent has been taken from the world.
Shari Belafonte, an actress and model, took to Facebook to post a heartfelt message to honor her friend.
"Ken Page, one of the sweetest, most talented guys on the planet," she wrote in a statement alongside a photo of the late star. "Dorian Hannaway just posted that he's left us. And, I couldn't believe it... but it's true. It feels like it's coming just a bit too fast and a tad too furiously now...
"James Earl, Dame Maggie, Kris, Pete Rose, Dikembe, Officer Taggert/John Ashton, Drake H... and now Ken. RIP ALL of you. Heaven is packing it in right now with brilliant talent stepping off that First Class charter..." she added.
Fellow performer Danny Elfman also took to X to publish a tribute for his late friend.
"I’m still stunned by last night’s terrible news. Ken Page died suddenly. He was the one and only Oggie Boogie Man. He was simply one of the best, most generous souls I know. Full of life and overflowing with joy. Talented and then some. Ken, my friend, you will be deeply missed," he wrote on the platform.
Fans also took to social media to talk about their favorite moments courtesy of Page.
"Ken Page, the voice of Oogie Boogie, has sadly passed away at the age of 70. Rest in peace to a Halloween legend," wrote one user, while another added: "This s*** really hurts because Ken Page's voice covered so much of my childhood."
A third also commented: "RIP to one of the greatest actors and singers of all time, Ken Page! You will be remembered for your incredible talents and the joy and memories you brought to this world. You will be missed."
Page was born and raised in St. Louis. He made it to the big stage on Broadway in 1975 when he joined the cast of The Wiz musical as the show's Lion and due to his incredible performance, he quickly became a star in the industry.
His career highlights include his portrayal of Old Deuteronomy in the original Broadway production of Cats, which showcased his powerful voice and stage presence before going on to voice the character of Oogie Boogie in Disney's The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
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