From Leslie Zemeckis, author of Behind the Burly-Q: The Story of Burlesque in America, we receive the sad news of the passing last night of burlesque legend Lady Midnight. Says Leslie, “Born Benita Kirkland, her father was legendary comedian Monkey Kirkland and Benita got her start stripping in his club. She was a light, a positive, upbeat friend. A funny, generous, gorgeous woman. She will be missed. And I’m so glad I got to tell at least part of her story in Behind the Burly-Q.”

Rest in power, Benita. Thank you for lighting up our world.