Mitzi Gaynor, the talented singer, dancer, and actress best known for her role in the beloved musical “South Pacific,” has passed away at the age of 93. She died of natural causes in Los Angeles, as confirmed by her representatives.
A Career Spanning Eight Decades
Throughout her impressive career, Mitzi dazzled audiences with her performances in classic movie musicals during the 1950s. Some of her notable films included “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “Anything Goes,” and “Les Girls.” However, it was her role as Nellie Forbush in “South Pacific” that truly made her an international star, earning her a Golden Globe nomination.
Despite the decline of movie musicals, Mitzi reinvented herself as a concert performer, making her nightclub debut at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas in 1961. Her performances there were a tremendous success, breaking box office records.
Television Success
Mitzi was also a familiar face on television. She made guest appearances on popular variety shows, including “The Ed Sullivan Show,” where she shared the stage with The Beatles. Over the years, she showcased her singing and dancing talents in numerous hit TV specials, always bringing her infectious joy to the stage. She even won a New York Emmy for her documentary, “Mitzi Gaynor: Razzle Dazzle! The Special Years.”
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born Francesca Mitzi Marlene de Czanyi von Gerber on September 4, 1931, in Chicago, she began ballet training as a child. Her talent was evident early on; at just 15, she made her Broadway debut in “Gypsy Lady.” Soon after, she was signed by 20th Century Fox, where she took on various roles, solidifying her place in Hollywood.
Mitzi’s first major role came in “My Blue Heaven” in 1950, followed by many more films, including “The Joker Is Wild” with Frank Sinatra and the musical “Les Girls” with Gene Kelly.
Lasting Legacy
In her later years, Mitzi continued to perform, even singing while seated due to a leg injury during a 2019 show. She reminisced fondly about her life and career, sharing stories about her time with eccentric billionaire Howard Hughes.
Mitzi Gaynor will be remembered not just for her remarkable talents, but for her vibrant personality and the joy she brought to her audiences. Her legacy in music, film, and television will live on, reminding us of the magic of performance.
