HARLEM, NY — The notoriously discerning audience of Showtime At The Apollo has reportedly begun demanding an encore from Kiki Shepard, the show's beloved former co-host, following news of her passing at 74. Sources close to the historic theater indicate that several patrons, many of whom have attended tapings for decades, expressed disappointment that Shepard's final act wasn't performed live on the Apollo stage.

“Shepard was a legend, no doubt,” stated Agnes 'The Gong' Johnson, 87, a fixture in the front row since the 1970s. “But a true legend knows how to leave the stage. Where was the mic drop? The dramatic pause? We’ve seen worse acts get a second chance. She owes us one last laugh, or at least a graceful exit that doesn’t involve a press release.”

The sentiment was echoed by other long-time attendees, who suggested that the announcement of her death lacked the theatrical flair and audience participation characteristic of the Apollo. “It’s just not how we do things here,” commented Tyrone 'The Hook' Williams, 62, known for his swift judgment of subpar talent. “You don’t just… go. There should’ve been a build-up, maybe a tribute montage, and then, if the crowd felt it, a standing ovation. Or, you know, a polite escort off the premises.”

Theater management has issued a statement reminding the public that deceased individuals are generally unable to perform, a nuance that appears lost on some of the more traditional Apollo patrons. Funeral arrangements are reportedly proceeding as planned, despite a growing petition for the ceremony to be held during Amateur Night.