One of the last surviving stars of classic Hollywood has passed away: Mitzi Gaynor, the vibrant actress, singer and dancer who starred in South Pacific and other golden age musicals, has died at 93.
Gaynor’s managers managers Rene Reyes and Shane Rosamonda confirmed the news to AP, saying that the actress died of natural causes in Los Angeles.
“As we celebrate her legacy, we offer our thanks to her friends and fans and the countless audiences she entertained throughout her long life,” they said in a statement.
“Your love, support and appreciation meant so very much to her and was a sustaining gift in her life.”
Born September 4, 1931 in Chicago, Gaynor began singing and dancing from a young age and signed a contract with Twentieth Century Fox at 17. After making her debut in 1950’s My Blue Heaven, she quickly rose to become a star.
One of classic Hollywood’s biggest “triple threats,” Gaynor’s singing, dancing and acting talents, combined with her energy and charm, made her a big draw in many hit musical films of the era, and she co-starred with some of the biggest movie stars. Her memorable films include There’s No Business Like Show Business, Anything Goes, Bloodhounds of Broadway and Les Girls.
But Gaynor is best known for starring in the 1958 film South Pacific, the big-screen adaptation of the beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein musical.
In the lead role of Nellie Forbush, Gaynor performed classic numbers like “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,” “A Cockeyed Optimist” and “A Wonderful Guy.” She received a Golden Globe nomination for her performance.
Gaynor made her last film appearance in 1963, but she reinvented herself as a live performer, to great success. Throughout the ’60s and ’70s, her act was a major draw in Las Vegas, and she had a series of lavishly produced television specials. She continued performing into her senior years.
Rest in peace to Mitzi Gaynor, one of the last surviving stars of golden age Hollywood who will always be remembered for her unforgettable performances in musicals like South Pacific.
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Funny Moments in Life
Once upon a time, there was a man who came home to find his wife of 10 years packing her bags. Confusion washed over his face as he asked, “Where are you going?” Little did he know, his wife had a surprising revelation. She boldly declared, “To Las Vegas! I found out that there are men who are willing to pay $500 cash for the very things I do for you, for free!”
As the husband processed this unexpected information, he couldn’t help but feel uneasy. After a moment of contemplation, he made a firm decision and began packing his own bags. Bewildered, his wife couldn’t resist raising her voice, “What on earth do you think you’re doing?” she screamed. With a mischievous smile, he replied, “I’m going to Las Vegas with you. I can’t wait to see how you’ll manage to live off a mere $1,000 a year!”
In another humorous encounter, an old lady found herself in a frustrating situation. She patiently waited for a parking space, only to have it snatched away by a young man in a flashy red Mercedes. Fuming with frustration, she approached the young man and exclaimed, “I was going to park there!” Unfazed, the man responded with a smug attitude, “That’s just what you can do when you’re young and vibrant.”
These amusing anecdotes remind us that life is full of unexpected surprises. Whether it’s discovering unusual career options or asserting our confidence in the face of cheekiness, embracing humor can lighten even the most exasperating situations. So let’s keep smiling and find joy in life’s funny moments!
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