The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Janina Garraway, a celebrated dancer, choreographer, and educator, whose artistry helped define some of the most memorable performances of the 2000s and 2010s. She was 36.
News of her passing was confirmed on Oct. 30, 2025, and shared widely after Chris Brown, who worked with Garraway early in her career, posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram.
“I will forever remember her light, energy, and artistry,” the singer wrote, remembering the dancer who appeared in his “Say Goodbye” music video and went on to inspire a generation of performers.
Garraway’s death has deeply saddened the dance community and her fans worldwide, with many describing her as a “rare soul” who combined fierce professionalism with a gentle, nurturing spirit.
A Battle Fought With Grace
While her family has not publicly released an official cause of death, information shared through a verified GoFundMe organized by her close friend Amy Egbert revealed that Garraway had been privately battling Stage 4 colorectal adenocarcinoma.
Egbert’s post described the months-long struggle Janina endured with courage and faith, undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries. Despite her illness, she continued to teach, mentor, and choreograph whenever she could.
“Even in her weakest moments, she found ways to uplift others,” Egbert wrote. The fundraiser raised more than $25,000 as of Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, reflecting how deeply Garraway was loved and respected by her community.
A Legacy Beyond the Spotlight
Born with a passion for movement, Janina Garraway’s dance journey led her to work alongside global icons including Mariah Carey, Usher, Babyface, and Paula Abdul. Known for her precision and soulful expression, she became a sought-after performer for stage tours, award shows, and music videos that shaped pop culture’s golden era.
Her legacy extended far beyond choreography. Garraway founded the Garraway Performing Arts Center, a space devoted to training young dancers and giving underrepresented youth access to professional instruction. There, she nurtured students not just in dance but in confidence, discipline, and creativity — values that will carry her name forward for years to come.
Tributes From Across the Industry
In addition to Chris Brown’s tribute, fellow dancers and choreographers, including Tina Landon, Marguerite Derricks, and Paula Abdul, expressed grief and gratitude for Garraway’s life. Many recalled her infectious joy and unwavering professionalism. “She made every rehearsal brighter,” one dancer wrote on social media.
Her passing also reignited conversations about the importance of healthcare access and support systems for artists — particularly those in industries where long hours and freelance work often leave performers without consistent medical coverage.
A Life That Danced Beyond Time
Though her life ended far too soon, Janina Garraway’s influence endures — not only in the steps she choreographed but in the lives she touched.
As one fan poignantly wrote beneath Chris Brown’s tribute: “The stage lights may have dimmed, but her rhythm lives on.”
