Judith Ann Jamison (May 10, 1943 – November 9, 2024) was an American dancer and choreographer, renowned for her work with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. She joined the company in 1965, becoming its leading performer and Ailey’s muse. After retiring as a dancer in 1980, she later returned as artistic director from 1989 to 2011, shaping its legacy.
Born in Philadelphia, Jamison trained in ballet and modern dance under Marion Cuyjet. Her early years were marked by rigorous discipline, and by 17, she transferred from Fisk University to the Philadelphia Dance Academy. In 1964, choreographer Agnes de Mille noticed her talent, bringing her to New York, where she soon joined Ailey’s company.
Jamison became famous for Cry (1971), a powerful solo choreographed by Ailey as a tribute to Black women. The performance, filled with emotional depth and technical brilliance, became her signature piece. She toured extensively, captivating audiences worldwide.
Beyond performance, Jamison shaped modern dance through teaching and choreography. In 1989, she succeeded Ailey as artistic director, expanding the company's reach while preserving its roots. Honored with the Kennedy Center Honors and the National Medal of Arts, she left an indelible mark on the dance world.