Anita Pointer, one of The Pointer Sisters’ four members, passed away at age 74 from cancer. The sad news was confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter on December 31 by Pointer’s publicist, Roger Neal. Neal said, “She waged a very valiant struggle with cancer. “She passed away while surrounded by family.”
Jazz, R&B, pop, country, and other genres were all prominently featured in the broad body of work by the Pointer Sisters, who first gained notoriety in the 1970s. One of their biggest successes, “I’m So Excited,” became renowned because to the “Saved By The Bell” episode when Jessie Spano developed a caffeine addiction and the movie “Summer Lovers” (via The Ringer). The sisters dominated the music charts and took home many honours, including three Grammys, in addition to permeating the media of the 1980s and 1990s. While each member of the group contributed equally, Pointer has been given credit for penning some of the group’s most well-known songs, like as “Fairytale,” which made them the first Black group to appear at the Grant Ole Opry (via Rolling Stone).
Pointer attempted a solo career in 1987, but her album “Love For What It Is” only achieved modest success. She nevertheless performed along with the original members of the band right up to the 2000s. Since only one Pointer sister is left, Pointer’s passing signifies the end of an era for The Pointer Sisters.
Anita Pointer is the third Pointer Sister to die
According to Britannica, June Pointer and Bonnie Pointer were the original members of The Pointer Sisters. But in the 1970s, Anita Pointer and Ruth Pointer combined, creating the renowned quartet. Bonnie attempted to go solo in 1977, which nearly led to the dissolution of the band. The Associated Press was informed by Anita that “We were crushed” (via Richmond Freedom Press). “The night she departed, we put on a show, but after that, we just stopped. Without Bonnie, we believed it wouldn’t work.” As their careers progressed, the pared-down lineup actually outperformed its sister in terms of success.
Sadly, the youngest Pointer sibling, June, passed away from cancer in 2006 at the age of 52, according to Spokesman. According to People, Bonnie Pointer passed away at age 69 after a heart arrest 14 years later. Anita issued a statement at the time that read as follows: “My dearest friend Bonnie and I spoke frequently. Never in our lives did we argue. I already miss her, but one day I’ll see her again.” Anita’s family has made a heartfelt message about her being reunited with her deceased sisters and late daughter Jada Harper in light of her demise. According to CNN, the statement said, “While we are extremely saddened by the loss of Anita, we are comforted in knowing she is now with her daughter, Jada, and her sisters June & Bonnie, and at peace.”
