Fox
This would have made her dad proud.
Hours before she took the screen to play Rizzo on Fox's "Grease Live!" last night, Vanessa Hudgens took to Twitter to share some heartbreaking news: Her father, Greg Hudgens, had passed away on Saturday evening.
I am so sad to say that last night my daddy, Greg passed away from stage 4 cancer. Thank you to everyone who kept him in your prayers.
@VanessaHudgens
Tonight, I do the show in his honor.
@VanessaHudgens
The former "High School Musical" star revealed her father's diagnosis last year, while accepting an award at the 2015 Industry Dance Awards.
"Last year, my boyfriend, Austin, lost his mom, Lori, to cancer, and my dad has just been recently diagnosed with stage four cancer," she said. "Let me tell you, I hate cancer. I hate cancer with every cell of my being."
But the show went on as planned last night -- and Vanessa knocked it out of the park. The incredibly fun show was a blast to watch all around, but Hudgens' performance of "There Are Worse Things I Could Do" stood out as a definite highlight -- especially considering all she was going through as she sang the emotional song.
There are worse things you could do, Rizz (@VanessaHudgens). Much worse! #GreaseLivehttps://t.co/djENXG5qbT
@GoGrease
After the show ended, Vanessa's celebrity friends and fans took to Twitter to share their congratulations.
My dear @VanessaHudgens, you were absolutely perfect on @GoGrease.. Your strength is inspiring. What a smile your father must have.
@WValderrama
That was so fun!!! @GoGrease I'm so proud of you @VanessaHudgens you were incredible ❤️
@AshBenzo
@GoGrease was so fun.. Awesome job to @juliannehough @VanessaHudgens @KekePalmer and the rest of the cast!!!! 💗💗💗
@ddlovato
Everyone was incredible tonight. Well done @juliannehough @VanessaHudgens @AaronTveit the whole cast and the CREW! #GreaseLive
@AnnaKendrick47
@VanessaHudgens so proud of your strength tonight on @GoGrease ❤️
@alyandaj
Yes, loved @VanessaHudgens tonight. Such a pro, great voice and fun to watch. #GreaseLive
@BethanyJoyLenz
So so proud! You are an amazing lady--talented, strong and sweet! ❤️❤️ @VanessaHudgens
@emrata
Just heard about @VanessaHudgens terrible loss-god bless her for showing such strength tonight.v-you gave an incredible performance:)
@mariamenounos
Super proud of all involved in @GoGrease. Infectious fun, live on a high wire - dangerous yet walkable! Bravo @AaronTveit & @VanessaHudgens
@ActuallyNPH
Imagine if you had a day like @VanessaHudgens & performed like that. Wow.What a strong woman.My new hero#GreaseLive pic.twitter.com/ZSyprJ5hnY
@MarioLopezExtra
I wouldn't expect anything less @VanessaHudgens is killing it! So proud of my girl #GreaseLive
@ashleytisdale
I really think Vanessa Hudgens is the best thing about #GreaseLive
@smashleybell
Imagine you had Vanessa Hudgens' day, and doing that.
@Lin_Manuel
What a superhero.
In total awe.
A true professional with grace and class @VanessaHudgens #GreaseLive wow.
@lisarinna
sending my love and prayers to you guys and the rest of your family today -- love you both @stellahudgens @VanessaHudgens 💜
@noahcyrus
As a former Zuko I look forward to watching #GreaseLive on Fox.@VanessaHudgens is so strong to go on with the show! Do it for your pop!
@DaneCook
As the credits rolled, a slate was also shown in her father's honor: "In loving memory of Greg Hudgens, June 22, 1950 - January 30, 2016."
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