Gene Anthony Ray (May 24, 1962 – November 14, 2003) was an American actor, dancer, and choreographer who is best known for his portrayal of the street smart dancer Leroy in the 1980 film Fame in addition to the television spin-off which aired from 1982 until 1987.
Born in Harlem, New York, Ray grew up in the neighborhood of West 153rd Street. He attended the New York High School of the Performing Arts, the inspiration for the film Fame, but was kicked out after one year. "It was too disciplined for this wild child of mine," Ray's mother, Jean E. Ray said.
Ray also studied dance at the Julia Richman High School, where he would audition for Fame choreographer, Louis Falco. Much like his Fame character, Ray had little professional training, but a raw talent that won him his role for the film.
After cancellation, Fame was later syndicated by MGM Television from 1983 to 1987. Ray also appeared in the 1995 film Out Of Sync, which was directed by his Fame co-star Debbie Allen, and the 1996 Whoopi Goldberg comedy Eddie.
In June 2003, Ray suffered a stroke and ultimately died from complications of the stroke on November 14, 2003 in Manhattan, New York. He was 41 years old and HIV positive at the time of his death.
