Gwen Verdon was an American dancer and actress. She originated the role of Roxie Hart in the 1975 Broadway musical Chicago. Verdon also starred in the 1966 Broadway musical Sweet Charity. She appeared in films such as Damn Yankees, The Cotton Club, and Best Friends for Life. She also appeared in Marvin's Room alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro. She made appearances on television in the series In Cold Blood and recorded the songs If My Friends Could See Me Now and Nothing Can Stop Me Now!. Verdon passed away in 2000.