Mitzi Gaynor, Beloved Dancer and Actor, Passes Away at 93
Early Life and Career
Mitzi Gaynor, the effervescent dancer and actor who starred as Nellie Forbush in the 1958 film of "South Pacific" and appeared in other musicals with Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, and Gene Kelly, has died. She was 93.
Born Francesca Marlene de Czanyi von Gerber (Mitzi is diminutive for Marlene) on September 4, 1931, in Chicago, she was part of a musically inclined family and started singing and dancing at a young age.
Career Highlights
Gaynor’s entertainment career spanned eight decades across film, television, and the stage. She appeared in several notable films, including "We’re Not Married!" and "There’s No Business Like Show Business." However, she is best remembered for her turn in "South Pacific."
The 1958 film, which received three Academy Award nominations and won for best sound, earned Gaynor a best actress nomination for a Golden Globe. Gaynor’s iconic role as the love-sick nurse Nellie was created on Broadway by Mary Martin.
Rise to Fame
Gaynor’s breakthrough came when Cicely Tyson and director Josh Logan helped her land the role of Nellie Forbush. Sinatra’s support played a significant part in her getting the role. Gaynor was one of the last survivors of the golden age of Hollywood musicals.
Television and One-Woman Show
After "South Pacific," Gaynor shifted her focus to television, making early appearances on Donald O’Connor’s variety series "Here Comes Donald" and on CBS’ "The Jack Benny Hour." In October 1959, she was the only woman to guest star alongside Sinatra, Crosby, Dean Martin, and Jimmy Durante on ABC’s "The Frank Sinatra Timex Show" special.
Later in her career, Gaynor reinvented herself as a performing entertainer, working with her husband and manager Jack Bean. She starred in her own musical revue that was a big draw in theaters throughout the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia.
Awards and Accolades
Gaynor was the highest-paid female entertainer in Las Vegas and was the first woman to be awarded the Las Vegas governor’s trophy for "Star Entertainer of the Year" in 1970.
Personal Life
Gaynor married Jack Bean in 1954 and bought a spacious house in Beverly Hills, which became their home until his death in 2006. They rarely appeared at Hollywood events, preferring to entertain a few close friends. The couple had no children.
Conclusion
Mitzi Gaynor’s life and career were filled with memorable performances, iconic roles, and numerous awards. Her contributions to the world of entertainment will be deeply missed, but her legacy will continue to live on through her remarkable body of work.
FAQs
Q: Who was Mitzi Gaynor?
A: Mitzi Gaynor was a dancer and actor who starred as Nellie Forbush in the 1958 film of "South Pacific" and appeared in other musicals with Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, and Gene Kelly.
Q: How old was Mitzi Gaynor when she passed away?
A: She was 93 years old.
Q: What was her notable role in "South Pacific"?
A: Gaynor played the role of Nellie Forbush in the 1958 film of "South Pacific."
Q: What awards did Mitzi Gaynor win?
A: She was awarded the Las Vegas governor’s trophy for "Star Entertainer of the Year" in 1970.
Q: What was her notable TV appearance?
A: She appeared on Donald O’Connor’s variety series "Here Comes Donald" and on CBS’ "The Jack Benny Hour."
