Vanessa Hudgens has been so busy starring in the live TV musical Grease: Live, that she hasn’t had enough time and space to mourn the recent loss of her father, Greg.
Last weekend, the 27-year-old actress announced that her father had passed away just a day before her performance on the much-talked about live TV production of the 1971 musical, Grease.
“I am so sad to say that last night my daddy, Greg passed away from stage IV cancer,” tweeted Hudgens on Sunday.
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.
— Vanessa Hudgens (@VanessaHudgens) January 31, 2016
Despite the tragic event, Vanessa Hudgens still managed to deliver a great performance as Rizzo, which was highlighted by an emotion-filled rendition of “There Are Worse Things I Could Do.”
A source close to the actress told Us Weekly that she had an “incredibly hard” time performing in the highly-anticipated show because of her father’s passing, but that did not deter her from grabbing the opportunity to honor her father in front of a national audience.
A week has gone by since her father succumbed to cancer, and Hudgens is back on Twitter, thanking her fans and followers for their support kind words and support.
“I can’t believe @gogrease is OVER! Grand opening and grand closing. Thank you to everyone who watched & supported me last night.
I can’t believe @gogrease is OVER! Grand opening and grand closing. Thank you to everyone who watched & supported… pic.twitter.com/Uz2HDJoD5Y
— Vanessa Hudgens (@VanessaHudgens) February 2, 2016
She also posted a touching image on her Instagram page that said: “I wish heaven had visiting hours” accompanied by the caption, “If only…”
Vanessa Hudgens announced her father’s illness during a moving speech she delivered at the Industry Dance Awards, in which she was presented with the Breakthrough Performer Award. Aside from talking about her journey from High School Musical to Broadway, Hudgens also expressed her resentment over cancer because of the effect it has made to people in her life.
“I hate cancer with every cell of my being.” she said.