Mitzi Gaynor, the vibrant actress, singer, and dancer known for her performances in South Pacific and other classic Golden Age musicals, has passed away at 93. She was one of the last remaining icons of Hollywood's golden era. Gaynor's managers, Rene Reyes and Shane Rosamonda, confirmed that she died of natural causes in Los Angeles.
In a statement, they expressed their gratitude, saying, "As we celebrate her legacy, we offer our thanks to her friends, fans, and the countless audiences she entertained throughout her long life. Your love, support, and gratitude were a life-sustaining gift to her and meant so much."
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| Mitzi Gaynor publicity portrait for 1958 film ‘South Pacific’. (Photo by Screen Archives/Getty Images). |
Born in Chicago on September 4, 1931, Gaynor began dancing and singing at a young age. At just 17, she signed a contract with Twentieth Century Fox and quickly rose to stardom after her debut in the 1950 film My Blue Heaven. Gaynor became known as one of Hollywood's greatest "triple threats," thanks to her exceptional talents as a singer, dancer, and actress. Her charisma and energy earned her leading roles in popular musicals of the era.
Among her most notable films are Bloodhounds of Broadway, Anything Goes, There’s No Business Like Show Business, and Les Girls. However, her most iconic role was as Nellie Forbush in the 1958 film adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein's beloved musical South Pacific. Gaynor's performances of timeless songs like “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,” “A Cockeyed Optimist,” and “A Wonderful Guy” remain unforgettable. Her portrayal earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
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| Mitzi Gaynor in a publicity still for the movie South Pacific. (Photo by Herbert Dorfman/Corbis via Getty Images) |
After her final film appearance in 1963, Gaynor reinvented herself as a live performer, becoming a major attraction in Las Vegas throughout the 1960s and 1970s. She also starred in a series of lavish television specials.
Gaynor continued performing well into her later years. As we say goodbye to one of Hollywood’s last Golden Age stars, Mitzi Gaynor will forever be remembered for her enduring contributions to musical theater and film, especially her legendary role in South Pacific.
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