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November 22, 2003

OBITUARY: Gene Anthony Ray Gene

OBITUARY: Gene Anthony Ray

Gene Anthony Ray, the actor who played Leroy Johnson in
'Fame', died yesterday in Manhattan at the age of 41.

I am writing this with a great sadness in my heart. 'The Kids
from Fame' was the soundtrack to my childhood, and I'm not
afraid to admit it! The explosive talent of Gene's singing and
dancing could be felt once as BBC1 broadcast the weekly
episode. The show would be duly recorded and I'd spend the
following week learning the new songs and practicing the dance
routines in front of the TV.

Gene brought a force and determination to the character of
Leroy, in his passionate dance routines and tempestuous
on-screen relationships. My favourite song routines included
the kitsch-camp 'Desdemona', the smooth-as-chocolate
'Lay Back and Be Cool', and the uplifting ensemble numbers
like 'Starmaker'.

There is a certain grace & style in male dancers and Gene was
up there with the best. He pulsated, rocked and leapt through
the air. Thank you Gene - you'll live forever and I will remember
your name...

[for more obituaries, see www.fameforever.com]