Tony Award-winning star, ‘Dreamgirls actor Hinton Battle dead at 67

Legendary Broadway performer Hinton Battle, best known for his roles in “The Wiz” and “Dreamgirls,” has died following a lengthy illness.

He was 67.

The 3-time Tony Award winner died Tuesday at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, his rep confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter.

His rep declined to state an official cause of death.

In “Dreamgirls,” Battle starred as car salesman Wayne, who becomes a producer for Rainbow Records. The role earned him a SAG and Critics Choice nomination.

He appeared in the hit 2006 film alongside Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson, Eddie Murphy, and Jamie Foxx.

Battle was arguably best known for his work on Broadway’s “The Wiz.” He made his debut at the age of 18 after stepping in for the lead actor, and did not look back.

Battle went on to become a three-time Tony Award winner, picking up all three gongs in the featured actor in a musical category for his performances in “Sophisticated Ladies” in 1981, then three years later in “The Tap Dance Kid,” and “Miss Saigon,” in 1991.

He is the only performer to win the award that many times.

Battle’s “Dreamgirls” co-star Jennifer Hudson led tributes Wednesday following the news of his death.

Remembering Battle as a “Broadway icon,” Hudson also took a moment to pay tribute to Chita Rivera, who also died this week.

“We lost two irreplaceable Broadway icons this week,” the EGOT winner wrote on X. “Chita Rivera and Hinton Battle ! I’ll always be grateful for their unique artistry and impact and the way our lives intersected! Rest well, legends!”

Stephanie Mills, who played Dorothy alongside Battle in “The Wiz,” wrote on Instagram, “My Dear Scarecrow, Mr Hinton Battle, words cannot express how I feel.”

“You’ve joined the heavenly cast. I will miss you forever. I loved you then, now, and forever. Rest babe, job well done. Until we meet again,” she added.

The Tony Awards also honored Battle’s glittering career on Broadway by sharing a clip of his 1981 acceptance speech.

“In loving memory of iconic Tony Winner, Hinton Battle,” they wrote. “His unparalleled talent and infectious energy will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were touched by his brilliance.”

Battle is survived by his sisters, Eddie, and Lettie.