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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The Blonde Bikini Bombshell: Whatever Happened to Bo Derek?
Children of the 1970s hold dear memories of Bo Derek. With her trademark golden hair, piercing blue eyes, and braided hairstyles that banished any bad associations, she was one of the most gorgeous bombshells of her day. Since her brief moment of fame, a lot of people have been interested in learning more about her life, including where she ended up, why she stopped acting, and what her present circumstances are. Check out what Bo is doing these days.
Bo Derek’s Formative Years
Before she was known as Bo Derek, Mary Cathleen Collins was born on November 20, 1956, in Long Beach, California. Working-class parents reared Mary in a conventional American home. Her mother was a cosmetics artist, while her father was a sales executive. When Mary was a teenager, she was very interested in two things. She loved horses and was first and foremost a passionate horsewoman. She would proudly display her talents as she competed in numerous contests. She loved performing as well. She chose to enroll in acting classes in order to hone such skills.
Bo made an appearance in the 1977 film Orca. A large killer whale was seen biting off her leg in this Jaws-like movie. Her real ascent to fame, however, was primarily credited to Blake Edwards’ 1979 film “10.” Her distinctive blond braided hair began to stick out at this stage. After this one, she didn’t pursue a career in action-packed, risk-taking films. Among these were the movies “Ghosts Can’t Do It” (1990), “Bolero” (1984), and “Tarzan, The Ape Man” (1981).
partnership with John Derek
Bo first made the director John Derek, who would eventually become her husband, when she was just 16 years old. At the time, she was married to Linda Evans. It was only after a few years that they began dating. But in order to avoid the strict American regulations, they had to go to Mexico and Europe while Bo was still a child.
Soon later, John and Bo Derek tied the knot at the ages of 48 and 19, respectively. In an interview with Interview Magazine, Bo stated that she frequently felt guilty when Linda was around.I was at least partly to blame for some significant agony Linda Evans endured, according to Bo. She had been really thoughtful and courteous. Remarkably, I didn’t see her until yesterday. We were at a jewelry trunk show for charity. She was still as wonderful and delightful as ever. I always feel like sh*t when I’m with her. It’s still very much ingrained even years later.
Following that, John and Bo Derek began collaborating on projects. John would persuade her to show off her body in an effort to add some spice to his low-budget productions. This brought attention to his movies, but mostly to Bo because he was a well-known figure in Hollywood.
John Derek Was the Source of Her Braided Hairstyle Inspiration
John Derek designed the braided style for her most famous movie, “10,” although he did not direct or create it. He suggested that Bo show Blake some of his photos so that the man could judge them based on their appearance. She most certainly did. It was the late 1970s, and I asked, “How are you going to change the way you look since everything was fluffy and I’m blonde?” Bo Derek said, “I’ve always thought that would be a terrific look for me; John is a fantastic photographer.””And we tried it out. “Why don’t you show Blake these photos and see if he’ll be interested?” he said at that point. It would look great on you and be quite appropriate for the role.
Unfortunately, in 1998, John Derek passed away from a cardiovascular disease. He was seventy-one years old when he died. Bo stated that after his death, she never imagined that she would reestablish contact with anyone. The loss had devastated her.
Bo Derek, the Equestrian and Humanitarian
Bo Derek’s early passion for horseback riding seems to take precedence over her later years of fame. Even though Bo’s acting career was at its pinnacle, she made the decision to give it up. Instead, she became an activist and supporter of animal welfare. She worked very hard to protect and preserve the animals.
Bo Derek is not simply an animal lover. She also received an honorary appointment from the VA as the National Rehabilitation Special Events chair.Derek states that “VA’s National Rehabilitation Special Events promote the healing of body and spirit, which helps veterans improve their independence and live higher quality lives.” “I am deeply honored and moved to serve as the honorary chair of a truly noble cause on behalf of America’s veterans once again.”
Bo is currently married to John Corbett, the star of “Sex in the City.” They have been together for more than 20 years. They decided not to make any public announcements about their desire to marry in secret, in front of just their closest friends and family.
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