The Life and Legacy of Gregory Hines: A Journey Through Dance and Resilience

Gregory Hines, an iconic figure in the world of tap dancing and acting, was not only known for his incredible talent but also for the profound challenges he faced throughout his life.

Born on February 14, 1946, in New York City, Hines grew up in Washington Heights, near Harlem, where he was immersed in the vibrant cultural landscape that would shape his career.

His journey from a young dancer to a celebrated performer is a testament to his resilience and passion for the arts.

Early Life and Introduction to Dance

Gregory Hines was the second child of Alma and Maurice Hines Sr. His father was a musician and semi-professional baseball player, while his grandmother, Ora Hines, danced at the famous Cotton Club in the 1920s.

From a young age, Hines was surrounded by music and dance, which would become the foundation of his career.

He began dancing at the tender age of three, with his parents enrolling him and his older brother, Maurice, in dance lessons as a way to provide them with opportunities beyond their neighborhood.

By the time he was five, Hines and Maurice were already performing at the Apollo Theater, where they met legends of tap dancing such as Sandman Sims and Teddy Hale.

Inspired by Hale’s improvisational style, Hines quickly fell in love with tap dancing.

The brothers performed under the name “The Hines Kids,” and their talent caught the eye of famed choreographer Henry LeTang, who believed they could achieve greatness akin to the legendary Nicholas Brothers.

Broadway Debut and Rise to Fame

In 1954, at just eight years old, Hines made his Broadway debut in the musical “The Girl in Pink Tights,” where he played a shoeshine boy. This early exposure to the stage set the tone for his future endeavors.

At nine, he met his idol, Sammy Davis Jr., who would become a mentor and significant influence in his life.

However, Hines faced a life-altering incident when he nearly lost his vision after an accident involving a tree stump. Despite this setback, he continued to pursue his passion for dance.

Hines’s teenage years were marked by both success and challenges. The Hines brothers became known as the “Hines Brothers,” and their father, who had been a stay-at-home dad, joined their act as a drummer.

By 1963, they were touring the world, opening for renowned artists like Lionel Hampton and Ella Fitzgerald. Despite their success, Hines struggled with the demands of show business and developed a cocaine addiction, which began to take a toll on his personal and professional life.

Personal Struggles and Career Challenges

In 1968, Hines married Patricia Panella, a dance therapist, and they welcomed a daughter named Daria. Around this time, the brothers were on the verge of securing their own television show, which would have made them the first Black family to have a series.

However, the opportunity was lost when executives doubted audiences would accept a Black family on screen. This missed chance weighed heavily on Hines, who felt the pressures of racial barriers in the entertainment industry.

After a decade of performing together, Gregory and Maurice’s relationship deteriorated due to constant arguments and the strain of their careers.

Hines decided to step away from the act, seeking a different path as he battled his addiction. This decision led to a fallout with his brother, and they did not speak for years.

During this tumultuous time, Hines moved to California, where he embraced a more laid-back lifestyle, growing his hair long and living like a hippie. He formed a jazz-rock band called Severance, but financial struggles persisted.

With the support of friends like Bill Cosby, who lent him money to get back on his feet, Hines eventually returned to New York.

His reconciliation with Maurice marked a turning point in his life, as they began to work together again, leading to Hines’s role in the play “The Last Minstrel Show,” which reignited his passion for tap dancing.

Breakthrough Roles and Hollywood Success

Hines’s big break came in 1979 when he starred in the Broadway play “Eubie!” earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor.

The following year, he and Maurice appeared on “Sesame Street,” further showcasing their talents to a younger audience. Hines’s career continued to flourish in the 1980s, with standout roles in productions like “Ain’t Misbehavin’” and “Sophisticated Ladies,” which celebrated Duke Ellington’s music.

However, Hines’s outspoken nature sometimes got him into trouble. He was fired from “Sophisticated Ladies” after he criticized the show’s direction, but his castmates rallied behind him, leading to the director’s dismissal instead.

This incident highlighted Hines’s commitment to artistic integrity and his desire for meaningful performances.

In 1981, Hines took a significant step into film, replacing Richard Pryor in Mel Brooks’s “History of the World, Part I.”

This opportunity marked the beginning of a successful acting career, leading to roles in films like “The Cotton Club,” where he and Maurice portrayed characters inspired by the Nicholas Brothers. Despite the film’s focus on white gangsters, Hines’s performance was a testament to his talent and dedication to the art form.

A Champion of Tap Dance

Throughout his career, Hines remained a passionate advocate for tap dancing. He created and hosted the PBS special “Gregory Hines: Tap Dance in America,” which celebrated the history and artistry of tap.

Hines also helped establish National Tap Dance Day, ensuring the legacy of tap dancing would continue for future generations.

His influence extended beyond performance; he mentored young dancers, including Savion Glover, who would go on to become one of the most celebrated tap dancers in the world.

Hines’s dedication to preserving the art of tap dancing was evident in his involvement with various organizations, including the American Tap Dance Foundation.

Personal Loss and Legacy

Despite his professional success, Hines faced personal tragedies, including the loss of close friends like Sammy Davis Jr. and Whitney Houston.

These losses deeply affected him, but Hines continued to inspire others through his work. In 1996, he starred in “The Preacher’s Wife” alongside Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston, further solidifying his place in Hollywood.

Hines’s life took another turn in 1998 when he divorced his second wife, Pamela Koslow. Despite these challenges, he remained committed to his craft and continued to act, direct, and teach until his health began to decline.

Gregory Hines passed away on August 9, 2003, from liver cancer, a battle he fought privately. At the time of his death, only a few close friends and family were aware of his illness. His legacy, however, lives on.

In 2019, the United States Postal Service honored him with a postage stamp as part of their Black Heritage Series, recognizing his contributions to the arts.

Conclusion

Gregory Hines was not only a master tap dancer but also a talented actor and a passionate advocate for his art. His journey through life was marked by both triumphs and tribulations, but his resilience and dedication to his craft left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry

. Today, Hines is remembered not just for his incredible talent but for his role in elevating tap dancing and inspiring future generations. His legacy continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of art to transcend challenges and connect us all. Rest in peace, Gregory Hines; your impact will never be forgotten.