Irene Cara, the ‘Fame’ and ‘Flashdance’ singer and actress, has died at the age of 63

Irene Cara, an Oscar-winning singer and actress who recorded the title songs for the blockbuster 1980s films “Fame” and “Flashdance,” has died at the age of 63, according to her publicist.

Cara was discovered dead at her Florida home on Friday, according to publicist Judith Moose, who added that the cause of death was unknown at this time.

“She was a beautifully gifted soul whose legacy will live forever through her music and films,” Moose said in a written statement earlier this week.

Cara is best known for singing the title song to the 1980s smash hit “Fame,” with the unforgettable refrain “I’m going to live forever, I’m going to learn how to fly.” It follows the triumphs and tribulations of students at a New York performing arts high school.

She played Coco Hernandez in the film, a role written for her after she was initially cast as a dancer. Cara’s work earned her nominations for best new artist and best female pop artist at the Grammys.

Cara also co-wrote and performed the smash hit “Flashdance… What a Feeling” for the 1983 film of the same name, which depicted the life of aspiring dancer Jennifer Beals.

Cara won an Oscar for best original song and two Grammys for the song in 1984.

Cara was trained as a child in music, dance, and singing, and at a young age in the 1970s, she appeared on stage and in television, including “The Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson — at the time, a huge step to becoming someone in showbiz in America.

“This is the most difficult aspect of being a publicist.” “I can’t believe I have to write this, let alone announce the news,” Moose wrote.

“Please share your memories and thoughts about Irene.” I’ll be reading them all, and I know she’ll be smiling from Heaven. “She adored her followers,” she added.

Cara later appeared in films such as “DC Cab” and “City Heat,” as well as on television shows. She also appeared in plays and musicals.

On social media, fans paid tribute to Cara, with many reminiscing about their younger selves when “Fame” first came out.

“Thank you, Irene Cara, on behalf of every Eighties’ teenager who donned their leotard and legwarmers, danced to Fame in front of the mirror, and dreamed of one day enrolling at the High School of Performing Arts.” “May you rest in peace,” a woman named Jo Lake wrote.