Jennifer Beals Thanks Irene Cara for Her 'Fearless Triple Threat Talent' in Tribute After Her Death

Mar. 15, 2025

Photo: Bettmann Archive

(Original Caption) Winner of the Academy Award for the Best Song in a Movie, the writers of “Flashdance… What a Feeling,” pose with presenters after the ceremony. From left to right are: Actress Jennifer Beals, songwriter Irene Cara, songwriter Keith Forsey, and actor Mathew Broderick.

Jennifer Bealsis rememberingIrene Cara.

Shortly afternews of Cara’s deathwas announced Saturday, Beals, 58, honored the late star with amoving tribute post shared on Instagram.

“Thank you brilliant Irene for your open heart and your fearless triple threat talent,” Beals — who starred in 1983’sFlashdancewrote of Cara — who performed the film’s title track, “Flashdance… What a Feeling.”

“It took a beautiful dreamer to write and perform the soundtracks for those who dare to dream,” she continued, adding the hashtag, “#RIPIreneCara.”

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Chris Walter/WireImage

Irene Cara 1980 (Photo by Chris Walter/WireImage)

Cara’s publicist, Judith A. Moose,confirmed the news of her deathin a statement shared on the singer’s Twitter account early Saturday morning. She was 63.

“It is with profound sadness that on behalf of her family I announce the passing of Irene Cara,” Moose wrote. “The Academy Award-winning actress, singer, songwriter and producer passed away in her Florida home.”

“Irene’s family has requested privacy as they process their grief,” the rep added. “She was a beautifully gifted soul whose legacy will live forever through her music and films.”

Cara’s cause of death is currently unknown, but it will be released when information is available, her rep said. Funeral services are currently pending and a memorial for Cara’s fans will be planned at a future date, she added.

Irene Cara.Aaron Rapoport/Corbis/Getty

Los Angeles - CIRCA 1986 Singer Irene Cara poses for a portrait circa 1986 in Los Angeles Photo by Aaron Rapoport/Corbis/Getty Images)

Alongside Beals, other stars who paid tribute to Cara includedDebbie Allen,Diane WarrenandQuestlove, among others.

“My Heart Is Broken. #IreneCara was such a gifted and beautiful genius. Her talent and her music will LIVE FOREVER! FOREVER REMEMBER HER NAME!“tweetedAllen, 72, who starred in the television version ofFamethat was based on the film in which Cara starred.

“Oh no. Sing in power forever Irene Cara. Light Up The Sky Like A Flame,“wroteWarren, 66.

source: people.com