Danny Burstein, Rebecca Luker's husband, has opened up about the Broadway star's cause of death. The "Moulin Rouge" star also wrote about the "empty, dark abyss" his wife left behind.
Danny Burstein wrote an emotional essay as he mourned the death of his wife Rebecca Luker. The Broadway star died due to complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) on December 23. He recalled:
"When her hands stopped working she screamed in frustration."
Luker passed away thirteen months after she was diagnosed with ALS. She was 59. Burstein only had praises for his late wife, whom he described as "brilliantly talented."
They were married for over 20 years. Burstein recalled hurtful remarks from other people about him not being in Luker's league. But she would tell him she was lucky to have him.
"Not true. I was,"
Burstein, who
with his fellow Broadway star in 2000. Luker
in February 2020. She was diagnosed in late 2019, she said.
Back in August, Burstein shared about his experience caring for his wife.
, Luker debuted in "The Phantom of the Opera" in 1988. She had since been known for her soprano voice. She performed on "The Secret Garden" and "The Sound of Music," among others.
Aside from Broadway, she also had roles on popular television shows under her belt. She appeared in "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," "The Good Wife," "Elementary," and "CSI: New Orleans."
Back in August, Burstein shared about his experience caring for his wife. At the time, she also tested positive for coronavirus. He also battled COVID-19.
Burstein, a six-time Tony nominee, became his wife's sole caretaker after their 24-year-old son Zach moved out of their New York City home to spare himself from COVID-19.
Luker's role as Magnolia in "Show Boat" earned her first Tony nomination in 1995. In 2000, she received another Tony nod for her leading role in "The Music Man."
Ann Reinking performs in "Chicago" on November 14, 2006, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Her most recent nomination came in 2007 for his exceptional performance in "Mary Poppins." Aside from Burstein and Zach, she is also survived by her stepson, Alexander.
Another great loss to Broadway is Tony Award-winner Ann Reinking, who died on December 12 at the age of 71. She was best-known as Roxie Hart in 1977's "Chicago."
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