The Inspiring and Unforgettable Legacy of Amanda Kloots: Honoring Her Beloved Husband Nick Cordero After His Passing
Discover the remarkable ways Amanda Kloots has continued to honor her late husband, Broadway star Nick Cordero, since his tragic passing From heartfelt Instagram dedications to creating a ring from his ashes, her unwavering love and dedication shine through
Continuing to honor his memory, Amanda Kloots, the widow of Broadway actor Nick Cordero who passed away from COVID-19 in July 2020, kept her followers updated on her journey through grief, staying strong for their son Elvis, and cherishing the memories of their marriage, which lasted less than three years. In a previous interview with We, the cohost of The Talk shared that navigating the grieving process has been a unique experience each day. Despite what others may say about time healing wounds, Kloots confided that she still finds herself shedding tears daily, describing it as a necessary part of her personal growth.
The fitness instructor emphasized her dedication to maintaining health, activity, and happiness while acknowledging the individuality of the grieving process. She shared that Elvis's achievements exacerbate her grief, as she yearns for her partner's presence to celebrate these moments. The longing for her loved one amplifies the difficulty she experiences during the grieving process.
Content: Kloots held a memorial service in July 2020 to honor her late husband, attended by their close family and friends. She shared the details of the event on Instagram, expressing that it was meant to be a celebration as her husband would have wanted. The author of the bestselling book "Live Your Life" described the ceremony as beautiful and perfect, feeling the presence of her late husband's spirit throughout.
During the service, the attendees listened to the song "I'm Here" from the musical "The Color Purple." Kloots shared that the lyrics of the song took on a deeper meaning for her after Cordero's passing. She expressed her fear of the uncertainties that lay ahead and her struggle to find strength, but found solace in the belief that her late husband was watching over and supporting her.
Cordero was initially hospitalized in March 2020 after experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. His case was complicated, involving a mini-stroke, blood clots, and the amputation of his leg. On July 5, 2020, at the age of 41, the former dancer's death was announced.
Expressing her disbelief and profound grief through an Instagram post, she wrote, "I am completely shattered. The thought of facing life without him is unimaginable. Nick was a radiant presence in all our lives. He was a friend to all, always ready to lend an ear and offer assistance. In addition to being an extraordinary actor and musician, he cherished his family and cherished his roles as a husband and a father. Elvis and I will feel his absence in every aspect of our lives, every single day."
Keep scrolling to see all the different ways that Kloots has honored the Waitress actor after his death:
Credit: Courtesy Nick Cordero/Instagram
All the Ways Amanda Kloots Has Honored Her Late Husband Nick Cordero Since His Death
After the passing of her husband, Nick Cordero, due to COVID-19 in July 2020, Amanda Kloots has been dedicated to keeping his memory alive. She has been providing regular updates to her followers about her journey through grief, her strength for their son Elvis, and her cherished memories of her husband. In an interview with We, the talk show cohost expressed that navigating the grief of losing her partner is a continually evolving experience. Despite the passage of time, she still finds herself crying daily, describing it as a process of growth and healing.
The fitness instructor affirmed her commitment to maintaining her health, activity, and happiness, while acknowledging the inevitable process of grief, which varies for everyone.
The ex-professional dancer shared how her grief is intensified by witnessing Elvis's continued milestones. She expressed longing for her loved one's presence during moments worth celebrating, making the grieving process particularly challenging.
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In July 2020, Kloots organized a memorial for her late husband, inviting close friends and family. The bestselling author of "Live Your Life" announced the ceremony on Instagram, emphasizing her intention for it to be a celebration in line with Nick's wishes. She encouraged laughter, the sharing of memories, and singing in his honor. The event was described as beautiful and perfect, with a strong presence of Nick's spirit.
During the memorial, the attendees listened to "I'm Here" from the musical "The Color Purple." Kloots revealed that the lyrics took on a deeper significance for her after Cordero's passing. In an Instagram post, she expressed her fears about the uncertainties of her new reality, the pain of loss, and the strength required to overcome it. However, she found comfort in knowing that Nick is watching over her, supporting her, and wishing her well.
Cordero was first hospitalized in March 2020 after showing symptoms of COVID-19. His condition was complicated by a mini-stroke, blood clots, and the need for a leg amputation. On July 5, 2020, at the age of 41, the former dancer's death was announced.
Expressing her grief on Instagram, she wrote, "I am in shock and experiencing immense pain. I cannot fathom life without him. Nick was a beacon of light, a friend to all, always ready to listen, help, and engage in conversation. He possessed incredible talent as an actor and musician. His family meant the world to him, and he cherished being a father and husband. In everything we do, every day, Elvis and I will deeply miss him."
Keep scrolling to see all the different ways that Kloots has honored the Waitress actor after his death:
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Credit: Courtesy of Amanda Kloots/Instagram
She Started the ‘Wake Up Nick’ Singalong Trend
As Cordero lay unconscious in the hospital, the trainer fervently hoped for his awakening, longing to see his eyes open once more. To keep her faith alive, she reached out to her Instagram community and friends, organizing a vibrant and spirited "Wake Up Nick" dance party. Admirers would enthusiastically groove to his song "Live Your Life" and showcase their best dance moves on Instagram, using the hashtag #WakeUpNick.
Credit: Courtesy of Amanda Kloots/Instagram
She Finished Writing His Song
Before his health crisis, the late musician began writing a song called "Not Far Away" as a tribute to his father's passing. Although Cordero was unable to finish the lyrics before falling ill, Kloots took it upon herself to complete the track and even sang her own heartfelt words alongside a recording the seasoned Broadway performer had made. In a September 2020 Instagram post, the single mother shared, "The process of writing, singing, and recording 'Not Far Away' has been a remarkably therapeutic experience for me. Listening to it [sic] has brought me closer to him, providing immense comfort in these past few days."
Credit: Evan Agostini/Invision/AP/Shutterstock
She Shared His Music After His Death
The talk show host discussed her late husband's rock star dreams on her Instagram and in her memoir, Live Your Life. Following his passing, Kloots unveiled a chart-topping album featuring songs from one of his final live performances.
Credit: Courtesy of Amanda Kloots/Instagram
Her Fitness Class Proceeds Were Donated in His Name
In December 2020, Kloots took to Instagram to reveal that she would be contributing all the earnings from her upcoming AK! Body fitness classes to the Children's Hospital in Los Angeles as a tribute to Cordero.
Credit: Courtesy of Amanda Kloots/Instagram
A Ring From His Ashes Was Made
The jewelry designer Stephanie Gottlieb collaborated with the former Rockettes performer to create a one-of-a-kind ring using some of the ashes from her late husband. Stephanie Gottlieb had previously partnered with Cordero to design Kloots' engagement ring. Through an Instagram post, the former professional dancer shared that Gottlieb incorporated a sapphire gemstone (representing Cordero’s birthstone) in the center of the ring, and also engraved his initials (NC) on the inside. In the caption, Kloots revealed her intention to pass this meaningful ring down to their son, Elvis.
Credit: Courtesy of Amanda Kloots/Instagram
She Lived in the House He Helped Pick Out
After Cordero's passing, the former dancer from Bullets Over Broadway renovated the Laurel Canyon home that they had bought before his illness. In a February 2021 Instagram post, Kloots shared that she could sense her late husband's presence in the house that he had helped choose.
In April 2021, Kloots expressed her desire to move from the Laurel Canyon property. According to Hello, she revealed her intentions in an Instagram Story, stating, "Although our house is wonderful, it is quite small. Elvis and I cannot stay there indefinitely because of that. It was never a forever home for us, but I will never sell it!" According to The Dirt, the single mother had purchased a new cottage in the same neighborhood.
Credit: Courtesy of Amanda Kloots/Instagram
Her Heartfelt Instagram Dedications Postmortem
Grieving can pose challenges, and Kloots has openly and authentically expressed her range of emotions since the loss of her partner. Almost a year after Cordero's passing, she took to Instagram to share a deeply heartfelt and emotionally charged letter.
Little did I expect that this would be the final month I would spend with Nick. We all fought earnestly, including Nick himself. The duration of his journey appeared never-ending, yet as I reflect, I realize how swiftly everything unfolded and how he persevered until he was assured of the well-being of everyone he held dear. My longing for you amplifies with each passing day, my darling. We all feel the same ♥️.
Credit: Courtesy of Amanda Kloots/Instagram
Her Book Was Written to Share His Story
Kloots unveiled her memoir, "Live Your Life: My Story of Loving and Losing Nick Cordero," in June 2021, using an Instagram video to express her intention of recounting Cordero's journey and finding closure. In honor of the book's release, she arranged a virtual "book blessing" ceremony at The Bourbon Room, the venue where Cordero had last performed, and was joined by more than 21,000 people online, including her son Elvis. Embracing the significance of the occasion, Kloots graced the stage in Cordero's angelic costume, symbolizing his final portrayal. On Instagram, she penned, "Anna and I crafted this book with the purpose of etching Nick's name in history. Nick Cordero, we are forever grateful for your presence as our guiding angel."
Credit: Courtesy Amanda Kloots/Instagram
She Went to His Broadway Tribute
In September 2021, Kloots announced her plan to return to the East Coast for a tribute honoring her late husband. Cordero, who portrayed Earl in the original Broadway production of Waitress, will be remembered during this special event. Notably, Waitress was among the first Broadway musicals to resume performances despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
"BROADWAY IS BACK with a 'big ol slice of Live Your Life pie!!!'" exclaimed Kloots on Instagram. She expressed her gratitude to the entire cast and crew of Waitress for extending an invitation for this meaningful tribute to the original Earl. Although she anticipates shedding tears throughout the entirety of the show, she eagerly awaits the opportunity to be present.️️️
Credit: Courtesy of Amanda Kloots/Instagram
Her Wedding Anniversary Tribute
To celebrate the four-year milestone of their marriage, The Talk cohost decided to reminisce and share a precious moment from their wedding day. In an Instagram post in September 2021, she expressed, "Happy 4th wedding anniversary to us, my love! Our wedding day remains etched in my heart as one of the most incredible days of my life. From the anticipation of our first look to the magic of our first kiss as husband and wife, and the grace of our first dance, every memory is cherished. Though you are now my angel, you will forever be my devoted husband and the one true love of my life. Here's to the beautiful journey we continue together ♥."
One day prior, she attended the premiere of her late husband's former Broadway show Waitress with close pal Zach Braff.
Credit: Courtesy of Amanda Kloots/Instagram
Honoring Her Late Husband's 43rd Birthday
The contestant of Dancing With the Stars season 30 paid a heartfelt tribute to her late spouse on his 43rd birthday in September 2021.
"On your 43rd birthday, Nick, I want to wish you a happy one," expressed the author of Live Your Life alongside a slideshow of pictures featuring the couple. "It's difficult not to imagine the ways we would have celebrated today. We would probably have gone out for a delicious steak dinner followed by red velvet cake, all while enjoying the company of Elvis! Up there in heaven, I hope you are having a grand celebration with your Dad, and because I wish only the best for you, Prince, I hope you're singing alongside Prince today!
As Elvis and I sing to you from Earth today, we'll be missing you. If you were here, I know you would say, 'I'm the luckiest man on the planet. I live a blessed life.' I will love you eternally."
Credit: Courtesy of ABC
'DWTS' Tribute
Kloots got noticeably emotional as she prepared to dance to Cordero’s "Live Your Life" during a November 2021 episode of DWTS.
“Those packages were challenging. I was half watching, half not watching. Alan [Bersten] and I always have a tradition of saying a prayer before we dance,” Kloots shared with Us and other journalists after the episode aired. “I simply tried to savor the moment, to be honest. I felt incredibly grateful and fortunate to have the opportunity to perform this dance tonight to Nick's song. It was truly a privilege.”
Credit: Courtesy Amanda Kloots/Instagram
Learning to Live Again
"This video, captured exactly two years ago today, features Nick and Elvis," wrote the Talk cohost on her Instagram in January 2022. "It is perhaps my favorite father/son moment that I have documented. Previously, it evoked sadness when I watched it, but now it brings a smile to my face."
She continued in her post: "I believe that the most crucial lesson we learn from losing someone is how to embrace and live life. Perhaps I am going through a stage of grief, or maybe it's just a phase where I am fearlessly embracing life! Don't wait for tomorrow. Say yes. Be adventurous, whether it's a little or a lot! Dare to be bold, take risks, embark on new journeys, and try new things even when uncertainty arises. Smile. Take charge of my own life. Create the life I yearn to live!!! CREATE the life I desire to LIVE."
Credit: Courtesy of Harper Collins
'Live Your Life' Movie
In March 2022, Kloots verified that the book she authored following Cordero's passing will be adapted into a feature film. "How can you preserve the memory of someone you've lost? By mentioning their name, recounting their tales, and sharing their art and music!" she wrote in an Instagram announcement, expressing her deep gratitude for the "opportunity to narrate this story in a fresh and exciting manner."
Credit: Courtesy Amanda Kloots/Instagram
A Different Kind of Father's Day
In June 2022, Kloots expressed her heartfelt wishes on Instagram, extending warm Father’s Day greetings. She acknowledged her dad and the incredible grandpa he is, as well as Nick, who had always aspired to be a father and is now a cherished angel. Kloots also recognized her brother for being both an exceptional dad and uncle. To accompany her message, she shared nostalgic snapshots of Cordero with their son, Elvis.
Credit: Instagram/Amanda Kloots
Happy Birthday in Heaven
Kloots expressed her heartfelt desire to shower you with abundant love on this special day. Sending warm wishes on your 44th Birthday, Nick ️," she wrote in a touching caption accompanying a slideshow dedicated to her beloved late husband on Instagram in September 2022. Additionally, she graciously donated all the proceeds from her exercise class to Our House Grief Support Center in honor of Cordero's memory.
Credit: Courtesy of Amanda Kloots/Instagram
She Reflected on His Legacy on the 3rd Anniversary of His Death
"Three years have passed since Nick's passing, and although he is no longer physically here, his presence continues to resonate deeply. His impact on those who knew him, including myself, is profound. In July 2023, I shared on Instagram that his spirit lives on in a significant way.
Recently, a dear friend reminded me that three years is a relatively short period of time. It is important to allow myself grace during this grieving process. Yet, practicing self-compassion can be challenging. Nevertheless, my friend's words hold true. I can't help but miss Nick more than anything in the whole world.
One of the aspects I cherished most about Nick was the sense of safety and unwavering love I felt in his embrace. It was an extraordinary gift to receive from someone. He possessed a remarkable character and a heart that knew no bounds. Honey, I love you unconditionally. Always."
