An actor from one of the most successful Broadway shows of all time has passed away.
Clifton Oliver, who starred in the Broadway production of “The Lion King” as well as “In the Heights” and “Wicked,” is dead.
The star actor was only 47 years old, reported the New York Post.
Gone Too Soon
At 47 years old, the man’s star was snuffed out far too soon.
For months, Oliver has been battling illness. He was reported to the hospital for six weeks, then he was moved to hospice care to live out his final days.
A post was made on Facebook by his brother as a tribute to his final moments.
It stated, “My baby brother, Clifton Oliver, has had his final curtain call.
“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.
“My heart is sad, and overjoyed at the same time! I will miss him, but he is finally at peace! He brought so much light to this world! He brought so much light to my life!”
Oliver attended the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts in Jacksonville. When his education was completed, he moved to New York City to pursue his dream.
He broke through on Broadway in 2010 playing in “In the Heights.” He also landed a role in the ensemble of “Wicked.”
Oliver had appeared in numerous other shows, such as “Motown The Musical,” “Rent,” “Ragtime,” “Pal Joey,” “Kinky Boots” and “The Scottsboro Boys.”
When he landed the role of Simba in “The Lion King,” it was a life-changing moment.
His voice mesmerized people, putting him on everyone’s radar as a future star.
His portrayal was so loved, Oliver went on the road with the Broadway production, performing as Simba in the Las Vegas and Los Angeles road productions of the show.
