Gene Anthony Ray

Born on May 24, 1962, in the vibrant neighborhood of Harlem, a hub of artistic expression and cultural diversity. This was the birthplace of a talented individual who would go on to make a significant impact in the world of dance and entertainment. Attending Julia Richmond High School, he discovered his passion for dance through a class that would lay the foundation for his future endeavors. The opportunity to audition for Louis Falco, the renowned choreographer of the iconic film Fame (1980),was a turning point in his career. Although he initially attended the prestigious New York's High School of the Performing Arts, his academic journey was cut short due to unforeseen circumstances, leading to his eventual departure from the institution. Nevertheless, this experience would later serve as the perfect inspiration for his portrayal of Leroy in the film, which garnered widespread critical acclaim and earned Academy Awards for best song and original score. Unlike his character, who had undergone professional dance training, Ray possessed an abundance of raw talent, which would ultimately become his greatest asset. In 1982, he embarked on a tour of Britain, performing alongside other cast members from Fame (1980) in a series of 10 concerts. The culmination of this tour was The Kids from Fame in Concert (1983),a television special that showcased the excitement and energy of the performances, which was later broadcast in the United States a year after the tour concluded.