This is the absolute worst part of being a publicist. I can’t believe I’ve had to write this, let alone release the news. Please share your thoughts and memories of Irene. I’ll be reading each and every one of them and know she’ll be smiling from Heaven. She adored her fans. – JM pic.twitter.com/TsC5BwZ3fh

— Irene Cara (@Irene_Cara) November 26, 2022

Since announcing Irene’s death, fans of the late star have taken to social media to express their disbelief and share her impact on their lives.

You voiced the aspirations of an entire generation. RIP.https://t.co/XzFhfjQ4uu

— Michael Saylor⚡️ (@saylor) November 26, 2022

I was born in ‘69 and a latch-key kid of the 80’s so “The Electric Company” & “Fame” are touchstones from growing up. Her voice was unique and relentlessly beautiful. pic.twitter.com/ZjbO5DlG9z

— Jimi Jamm (@jimijamm) November 26, 2022

https://t.co/LgtK48LyF4
So sad to hear the passing of Irene Cara, this song ever since I heard it as a 12-year-old has stuck with me, my sincerest condolences to his family, friends & fans. R.I.P Irene Cara.

— JIMMY PAVLOVIC (@jpavlovic801) November 26, 2022

You were an amazing talent in #Sparkle and singing #WhatAFeeling and #fame among other accomplishments. May you shine bright as you soar with the Angels and continue to sing among the heavens in blissful peace. Prayers for your publicist and family. ????https://t.co/xZgoveQvlG

— Karen Spurlin (@spurlin6284) November 27, 2022

If it wasn’t for the show “fame” I never would have known that I can sing, play cello & violin and dance.
Thank you for inspiring this little girl from Chicago ????
May perpetual light shine upon her.

— Bathroom Ceiling Fresco (@MariaKChica) November 26, 2022

As a teen, the New York-born Cara began her acting career on Broadway, starring in small roles for musicals like The Me Knowbody Knows and Jesus Christ Superstar.

She then appeared on TV’s Electric Company and started acting in movies including Aaron Loves Angela and Sparkle.

Her breakthrough in the entertainment industry came after she was cast in the hit musical Fame. Her remarkable performance in Fame earned her two Grammy nominations for best new artist and best pop vocal in 1981.

Three years later, in 1984 she won two Grammys for her song Flashdance…What a Feeling and won an Academy Award for Best Orginal Song at the 1983 Oscars.