Alice Tan Ridley, Mother of Gabourey Sidibe, Dies at 72

Alice Tan Ridley, a celebrated New York subway singer and mother of actress Gabourey Sidibe, has died at the age of 72 on March 25. Known for her powerful voice, Ridley gained fame after performing in the subway for three decades and later appeared on shows like 'America’s Got Talent' and '30 Seconds to Fame,' winning $25,000 in the latter. She also made significant contributions to music with her debut album 'Never Lost My Way,' released in 2016, and an Emmy win for her role in the documentary 'Military Families.' Ridley's legacy extends beyond her music; she was a dedicated educator who inspired many students before finding success as a performer. Despite her struggles, including health issues in later years, Ridley remained a beloved figure in the New York City arts scene. Her daughter Gabourey Sidibe has often credited her mother for shaping her own path in the entertainment industry, including her career-defining role in 'Precious.'