Hodge received widespread praise for his work with the Opéra Louisiane in 2017 when he played King Balthazar in Menotti’s Amahl and the Night Visitors.

Hodge was so good that they asked him to come back multiple years.

"I love this opera. I always return to it every year because it keeps me centered. I love the story, and it reminds me to focus on what's really important in life," Hodge told The Advocate in 2018 about his work with Opéra Louisiane.

"I usually think about it before I accept any role, but when I received this invitation from Opéra Louisiane to come back to Baton Rouge, I immediately said yes. Working with this company was such a great experience last year. I love this opera company," he added.

The organization wrote a Facebook post honoring Hodge's memory.

"Today, we are sad to share the loss of our dear friend and colleague Antoine Hodge, whose life was cut far too short by COVID-19. Antoine was a passionate singer, dedicated actor, and an incredible colleague. He will be dearly missed by all of us at Opéra Louisiane. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and close friends at this time," the organization said.

Opéra Louisiane general director Leanne Clement told The New York Times that Hodge's hard-working nature and selflessness made him stand out.

“In the world of opera you come across plenty of people who are out for themselves, but that was not Antoine. He was a passionate performer who loved music and worked hard for everything that he had,” Clement said.

Hodge's family has started a GoFundMe to help cover the expenses of his medical care and funeral.

Officials with Metropolitan Opera told the newspaper that they plan to dedicate their opening night to Hodge as a way to honor him.

“Antoine lit up our stage with his immense talent and helped create the sense of community in Porgy and Bess that made our audiences adore it. Our thoughts are with Antoine’s loved ones and all his friends and admirers here at the Met,” Metropolitan Opera said in a statement to Opera Wire.

Antoine-Hodge

Get relevant content delivered to you once a week