Cara died in her Florida home on Friday, according to her spokesperson, with no other details provided.
Irene received an Oscar for Best Original Song for “What a Feeling,” the legendary song from “Flashdance” that helped launch her career.
Irene also had a tremendous success with “Fame,” from the film of the same name. She received a Golden Globe nomination for “Best Actress” for her performance in the film.
Cara went on to feature in additional films, including “City Heat,” in which she co-starred with Clint Eastwood and Burt Reynolds. She also appeared in “Certain Fury” alongside Tatum O’Neal.
Irene received a Prestige Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2004.
“It is with tremendous regret that I announce the departure of Irene Cara on behalf of her family. Irene’s family has asked privacy as they grieve their grief. She was a profoundly talented person whose legacy will live forever via her music and films,” her publicist stated.
Irene was 63 years old.
RIP