Gregory Hines: The Tragic Truth Revealed by Family 21 Years After His Death

Born on Valentine’s Day 1946 in New York City’s historic Sugar Hill neighborhood, Gregory Hines was destined for greatness.

His parents, Alma and Maurice Hines, were artistic pillars, with Maurice himself a triple threat—dancing, acting, and playing music.

Gregory’s immersion into the world of tap began almost from infancy; by age two, he was tapping, and by five, performing professionally alongside his older brother Maurice.

The brothers trained under tap legend Henry LeTang and shared stages with iconic performers like the Nicholas Brothers and Cab Calloway.

Their act evolved into the famed “Hines Brothers,” later joined by their father on drums, making their family act a true showbiz dynasty.

Gregory’s ability to infuse rhythm and emotion into tap dancing elevated the art form, blending traditional steps with innovative flair that made his feet sing like drums.

While Gregory’s style was rooted in tradition, he pushed boundaries by mixing tap with contemporary music and rhythms, ensuring the art stayed fresh and relevant.

His efforts extended beyond performance; he championed tap dance’s recognition nationwide, successfully lobbying for a dedicated “Tap Dance Day.”

His PBS special, Gregory Hines’ Tap Dance in America, further showcased his commitment to spreading tap’s magic.

Gregory’s admiration for fellow tap legend Sammy Davis Jr. was profound.

When Sammy fell ill, Gregory supported him, later vowing to carry on his legacy—an invisible basketball passed from one master to another.

Gregory’s career expanded into Broadway, where he earned Tony nominations and awards for shows like Jelly’s Last Jam and Sophisticated Ladies.

He also mentored future stars like Savion Glover and Diane Walker, nurturing tap’s next generation.

In addition to his stage success, Gregory ventured into film and television.

His breakout movie role came when he replaced Richard Pryor in Mel Brooks’ History of the World, Part I after Pryor was injured.

He appeared in diverse films such as The Cotton Club, White Nights alongside Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Running Scared with Billy Crystal, where he relished playing roles that defied racial stereotypes, including romantic leads.

Gregory also starred in TV shows, including The Gregory Hines Show and guest spots on popular series like Will & Grace.

His voice acting in Little Bill earned him accolades, and he co-hosted the Tony Awards twice, showcasing his versatility as a performer and host.

Despite his professional triumphs, Gregory’s personal life was marked by challenges.

He married twice—first to Patricia Panella, with whom he had a daughter, Daria, and later to Pamela Costello, with whom he had a son, Zachary.

Both marriages ended in divorce.

In the final years of his life, Gregory found love again with bodybuilder Ngita Jade, embarking on a long-distance relationship between Los Angeles and Toronto.

Gregory was also deeply committed to activism and philanthropy.

He championed arts education and social causes, believing everyone deserved creative expression.

His generosity extended to supporting healthcare and education initiatives, embodying the spirit of giving beyond the stage.

Tragically, Gregory’s life was cut short by liver cancer, a battle he kept private for a year.

He passed away in 2003 en route to the hospital, just as his work on Little Bill was concluding.

His death left a void in the entertainment world, mourned by family, friends, and fans alike.

His funeral in Santa Monica and burial in Oakville, Ontario, marked the final farewell for a beloved artist.

In the years since his passing, Gregory’s legacy has only grown.

His groundbreaking contributions to tap dance and acting continue to inspire performers worldwide.

The United States Postal Service honored him with a commemorative stamp as part of its Black Heritage series, cementing his place in history.

Gregory Hines’ story is one of brilliance and heartbreak, innovation and struggle.

Behind the spotlight’s glow was a man who battled personal trials while dazzling audiences with his extraordinary talent.

His family’s revelations 21 years after his death shed light on the complexities he faced, reminding us that even legends carry hidden burdens.

Yet, Gregory’s spirit endures—in every tap step echoed across stages, in the dreams of artists he inspired, and in the hearts of those who believe in the transformative power of art.

His life teaches us that true greatness is not just about fame, but about resilience, passion, and the courage to keep dancing through life’s toughest moments.