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How did Irene Cara die? Oscar-winning singer behind 'Fame' and 'Flashdance' theme songs has died aged 63

Irene Cara's publicist announced on November 25 that the star had died in her Florida home but the cause has not been revealed

Update: Irene Cara, the 'Fame' star died as a result of high cholesterol and hypertension. The official cause of the singer's death has been revealed as arteriosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease, according to the medical documents obtained from the medical examiner in Florida’s Pinellas County.

LARGO, FLORIDA: The singer behind the 'Fame' and 'Flashdance' theme songs, Irene Cara, who won an Oscar for her work, has died at the age of 63. Her publicist revealed late Friday, November 25, that Cara died in her Florida home, but did not reveal the cause of death. Judith A Moose wrote, “It is with profound sadness that on behalf of her family I announce the passing of Irene Cara. 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."

"Irene’s family has requested privacy as they process their grief. She was a beautifully gifted soul whose legacy will live forever through her music and films," Moose added. Soon after, a fan asked, “Is this true???? did she really pass? Sorry to even ask social media can be inaccurate,” to which Moose replied, “Unfortunately, yes. Her business manager and I were notified a few hours ago. I'm her publicist. Believe me, I wish it weren't true. We were working on amazing projects that would have made her and her fans incredibly happy. Her manager and I will finish them. She'd want that.” 

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American singer and actress Irene Cara Escalera was born on March 18, 1959. She received training in music, dancing and acting as a youngster, and made early television and stage appearances in the 1970s, including on PBS and Johnny Carson’s 'The Tonight Show'. Later, Cara earned both a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance and an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1984 for singing and co-writing 'Flashdance... What a Feeling' from the movie 'Flashdance'. In addition to portraying Coco Hernandez in the 1980 movie 'Fame', Cara is well-known for singing the film's theme song. 

As news about the star's death spread, many on social media paid tributes. One person wrote on Twitter, “My sincere condolences to the family! Just loved her...her work was amazing. RIP💐” “Oh no, that is heartbreaking news - Fame was my complete and utter inspiration as a teenage dancer, the collection of talent in that one production was incredible - RIP Irene 💔” another added. Another wrote, “RIP Irene.  Brilliant as Coco in “Fame”. 

"I remember watching the movie when I was a kid and was fascinated the school and the characters in the movie.  They were all so well played. Her music will live forever.” “Thank you for letting us know Judith, I can’t imagine how difficult this time is for you & Irene’s family & friends. Sending much love & strength from Melbourne, Australia. RIP beautiful Irene,” yet another user remarked.