Mitzi Gaynor, star of South Pacific and 1950s musicals, dies at 93. Celebrated for her acting, singing, and dancing, her legacy endures in film, TV specials, and live performances.
Mitzi Gaynor, a shining star of Hollywood’s golden era, passed away at the age of 93. Known for her radiant charm, versatility, and talents as an actress, singer, and dancer, Gaynor was celebrated for her role as Ensign Nellie Forbush in the 1958 film adaptation of South Pacific, a performance that earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
Her managers announced Gaynor’s peaceful passing on October 17 due to natural causes, stating, "For eight decades she entertained audiences in films, on television, and on the stage... She truly enjoyed every moment of her professional career and the great privilege of being an entertainer."
Born Francesca Marlene de Czanyi von Gerber in Chicago on September 4, 1931, Gaynor’s talent was evident early on, having been born to a violinist father and a dancer mother. After her family moved to Los Angeles when she was 11, she quickly found her way to the stage, joining the Los Angeles Civic Light Opera by age 13. By 17, she signed with Twentieth Century-Fox, debuting in the 1950 film My Blue Heaven.
She gained further recognition with a series of successful 1950s musicals, including There’s No Business Like Show Business (1954), Anything Goes (1956), and Les Girls (1957). Her effervescent personality and triple-threat abilities made her a standout in the genre, earning her the chance to share the screen with icons like Ethel Merman, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and Bing Crosby.
Her most iconic role came in the 1958 WWII romantic musical South Pacific. Her lively renditions of songs like "I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair" and "Some Enchanted Evening" became indelible parts of musical cinema history, further solidifying her status as a beloved star.
By the early 1960s, Gaynor transitioned to television, starring in a series of NBC and CBS musical specials that garnered 16 Emmy nominations, showcasing her longevity as a performer. Her enduring creative legacy was further honored in 2008 with the Emmy Award-winning PBS special Mitzi Gaynor: Razzle Dazzle! The Special Years.
In addition to her memorable performances on screen, Gaynor was known for her dazzling live performances, including a headline act in Las Vegas and a celebrated appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show. She was also the first A-list client of renowned designer Bob Mackie, known for her glamorous gowns.
Gaynor’s life and career were filled with standout moments, from starring alongside Hollywood’s elite to recording two albums for Verve Records. Her managers, Rene Reyes and Shane Rosamonda, paid tribute, saying, "We take great comfort in the fact that her creative legacy will endure through her many magical performances captured on film and video."
Mitzi Gaynor will be remembered for her immense talent, radiant charm, and the joy she brought to audiences across the world.