Broadway Veteran Margaret Whiting Dies at 86

Legendary singer and Broadway veteran Margaret Whiting died in Engelwood, New Jersey on January 9. She was 86 years old.

The daughter of songwriter Richard Whiting, she was a major recording artist, who is perhaps best known for her interpretations of such songs as “That Old Black Magic,” “Come Rain or Shine,” and “Moonlight in Vermont.”

Her work in the theater includes the Johnny Mercer revue, Dream, which played on Broadway in 1997, and Taking My Turn and Do It Again, both of which played off-Broadway. She also starred in touring productions of Gypsy, Call Me Madam, and Pal Joey.

Among her television credits are appearances on series from television’s golden age such as Studio 4, and Theatre 70, and a recurring role on Jury in the early 1980s.

Her singing voice was also heard in Valley of the Dolls in the role of Helen Lawson, played by Susan Hayward.

Whiting’s honors for her cabaret work include the MAC Lifetime Achievement Award, two Bistro Awards and induction into the Nightlife Hall of Fame.

She is survived by her daughter, Deborah.