‘Grease: Live’ to Air Despite Death of Vanessa Hudgens’ Father

Although her father, Greg, died only hours ago, a brave Vanessa Hudgens has announced that she still plans to participate in the FOX' Grease: Live tonight. While it no one would blame the former Disney diva for taking some personal time in the wake of such a private tragedy, the 27-year-old High School Musical star let her fans know through Twitter that she endeavors to persevere. L.A.'s inclement weather also threatens to sideline the live TV musical, but director Thomas Kail has assured the media that they plan to make do -- regardless of the rain.

In a tragic twist of fate, Vanessa Hudgens will be mourning her father's loss tonight instead of celebrating her appearing in FOX's Grease: Live along with him.

It would be understandable if Hudgens allowed a backup to play Rizzo tonight, but she announced via Twitter earlier this morning that that wouldn't be necessary (via USA Today):

"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."

"Tonight, I do the show in his honor."

Although nowhere on par with the passing of Hudgens' fathers, Los Angeles' grey skies have also put the production in jeopardy this evening.

During a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, Grease: Live director Thomas Kali admitted that although not ideal they have plans in place to deal with any rain that might be on the way:

"We definitely can't move any of our outdoor scenes inside so we'll have to use a tent or something -- or people are going to get a little wet."

What do you think of Vanessa Hudgens participating in Grease: Live so soon after the death of her father?

Is it disrespectful to dance around and sing on national television after losing someone so close to you?

Or, does Hudgens' willingness to go on just prove what a courageous performer she really is?

Let us hear what you have to say about her in the comment field below.