Gregory Hines: The Untold Story of a Tap Dance Legend’s Secret Struggle

Gregory Hines was much more than just a tap dancer; he was a beloved actor, singer, and an iconic figure who brought tap dancing into the mainstream spotlight.

Known for his charm, charisma, and incredible rhythm, Hines was celebrated worldwide. Yet, beneath his public persona was a deeply personal battle he kept hidden until the end of his life.

Born on February 14, 1946, in New York City, Gregory Oliver Hines was destined for the stage. Growing up in Washington Heights near Harlem, he was immersed in the vibrant culture of music and dance from an early age.

His parents, Alma and Maurice Hines Sr., recognized his talent early on, enrolling Gregory and his older brother, Maurice Jr., in dance lessons at the tender ages of three and five, respectively.

From Harlem’s Apollo Theater to Broadway’s spotlight, Hines and his brother became known as “The Hines Kids.” Their performances were electric, captivating audiences and attracting mentorship from legendary figures such as Sammy Davis Jr. But life wasn’t always bright lights and applause for Gregory.

At nine years old, he faced a frightening injury, almost losing sight in his right eye—a painful incident he quietly endured throughout his career.

Gregory’s resilience was apparent from his youth, enduring racism during tours in the segregated South, including an unforgettable incident where he unknowingly attempted to drink from a “whites-only” water fountain.

His innocence and subsequent confrontation with racial realities deeply affected him, influencing his later advocacy for racial equality.

The Hines brothers soared in popularity, evolving into “Hines, Hines, and Dad,” performing globally and opening for legendary artists like Ella Fitzgerald.

Yet, Gregory’s heart wasn’t always in show business; he yearned for a normal adolescence filled with football and friends, but his family’s financial dependence on his performances kept him on stage.

In 1968, Gregory married Patricia Panella, with whom he had his daughter, Daria. Despite their growing success, personal tensions began to surface.

The brothers’ relationship fractured, fueled by Gregory’s struggles with cocaine addiction and the pressures of fame. After a decade performing together, Gregory and Maurice split, marking the start of a painful estrangement that lasted years.

Gregory relocated to Venice, California, after his divorce from Patricia in 1973, embracing a bohemian lifestyle marked by substance abuse and financial instability.

His dreams of musical success faded quickly, despite forming a jazz-rock band named Severance. During these difficult years, Bill Cosby provided crucial support, lending Gregory money and helping him rebuild his life.

Returning to New York in the late 1970s marked a turning point. Reconnecting with Maurice, Gregory rediscovered his love for tap dancing, reigniting his career on Broadway.

His powerful performance in the 1979 play “Eubie!” earned him critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination. Soon after, Hollywood beckoned.

Hines quickly transitioned into films, making his memorable debut in Mel Brooks’ “History of the World: Part I” (1981), a role initially intended for Richard Pryor.

His charismatic presence and versatility led to numerous acclaimed performances, including “The Cotton Club” (1984), “Running Scared” (1986), and “Tap” (1989), where he starred alongside his mentor, Sammy Davis Jr., in what would become Davis’ final film.

Yet, even as he soared professionally, personal battles persisted. Gregory kept his struggles with addiction private, maintaining a dignified silence that few suspected.

Despite this internal battle, Hines’ career flourished across multiple platforms. In music, his duet with Luther Vandross, “There’s Nothing Better Than Love,” topped charts in 1986, showcasing his multifaceted talent.

Throughout the 1990s, Gregory remained a dynamic presence in film and television, starring in beloved films such as “Waiting to Exhale” (1995) and “The Preacher’s Wife” (1996).

He won a Tony Award in 1992 for his portrayal of jazz legend Jelly Roll Morton, solidifying his legacy as a Broadway great. His television work also included roles on “Will & Grace” and the children’s show “Little Bill,” earning him a Daytime Emmy Award.

However, the world remained unaware of Gregory’s greatest secret: his battle with liver cancer. Diagnosed with only two months to live, Gregory courageously defied medical predictions, continuing to teach tap dancing classes and perform publicly while privately enduring his illness. His determination and dignity characterized his final days, and only his closest family knew the true depth of his struggle.

On August 9, 2003, Gregory Hines passed away at the age of 57, leaving behind a profound legacy. The revelation of his secret battle with cancer stunned the public, highlighting his bravery and dedication to his art. His death marked a significant loss, deeply felt within both the entertainment community and beyond.

In 2019, Hines was posthumously honored by the United States Postal Service with a commemorative stamp as part of its Black Heritage Series, celebrating his significant contributions to American culture.

His brother Maurice later released a documentary, “Maurice Hines: Bring Them Back,” exploring their complex relationship and honoring Gregory’s enduring influence.

Today, Gregory Hines’ legacy lives on through his children, who carry forward his passion for the arts, and his protégé, Savion Glover, who has become one of the most influential tap dancers globally.

Hines’ story remains an inspiring testament to resilience, talent, and the powerful, quiet strength he displayed throughout his life.

Gregory Hines is remembered not just as a phenomenal tap dancer but as an icon who overcame immense personal challenges with grace. His life story inspires new generations, teaching that true greatness lies in both extraordinary talent and the courage to face one’s toughest battles quietly and honorably.