Hollywood Mourns: Beloved South Pacific Star Mitzi Gaynor Passes Away At 93

The entertainment industry is in mourning today as the world bids farewell to a Hollywood legend, Mitzi Gaynor, the talented actress and singer who captivated audiences with her stunning voice and captivating stage presence. Best known for her iconic role as Bloody Mary in the 1958 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical "South Pacific," Gaynor's passing at the age of 93 has left a void in the hearts of fans and fellow industry professionals alike.

Born on January 18, 1928, in Seattle, Washington, Mitzi Gaynor was the daughter of a theater producer and a former schoolteacher. Her early life was marked by a love for the performing arts, and she began taking singing lessons at the age of five. After graduating from high school, Gaynor enrolled in the University of Washington, where she studied drama and began performing in local theater productions.

A Star is Born: Mitzi Gaynor's Rise to Fame

Gaynor's big break came in 1956 when she was cast as Sally Bowles in the Broadway production of "Little Me." Her performance earned her critical acclaim and caught the attention of Rodgers and Hammerstein, who were looking for a new star to play the lead role in their upcoming musical "South Pacific." Gaynor's audition impressed the duo, and she was cast in the title role of Nellie Forbush, a Navy nurse who falls in love with a French plantation owner in a small island community during World War II.

Gaynor's performance in "South Pacific" was a game-changer for her career, earning her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical and a Grammy Award for Best Female Vocal Performance for her recording of the show's hit song "Some Enchanted Evening."

Awards and Accolades

Gaynor's success in "South Pacific" paved the way for a long and distinguished career in show business. She went on to appear in numerous stage productions, including "The Pajama Game," "I'll Get By," and "Seesaw." Gaynor also had a successful film career, starring in movies such as "With a Song in My Heart" and "Call Me Crazy."

Notable Roles

Some of Gaynor's most notable roles include:

• Nellie Forbush in "South Pacific" (1958)
• Sally Bowles in "Little Me" (1956)
• Imogene Morton in "I'll Get By" (1958)
• The lead role in "Seesaw" (1966)

Legacy and Impact

Mitzi Gaynor's impact on the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. She was a true Hollywood legend, with a career spanning over six decades. Gaynor's impact extended beyond her own performances, however, as she paved the way for future generations of female performers.

Influences

Some of the performers and artists who have cited Mitzi Gaynor as an influence include:

• Shirley MacLaine
• Carol Burnett
• Ann-Margret
• Elaine Stritch

Personal Life and Later Years

Gaynor's personal life was marked by both triumph and tragedy. She was married three times, first to James Leopold and then to Alvin Delacroix, before marrying Sheldon Harnick in 1973. The couple remained married until Gaynor's passing.

Health Issues

Gaynor was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012, but fortunately, the cancer was caught early and treated successfully. Despite her health struggles, Gaynor remained active in the entertainment industry, continuing to perform and record music until her death.

Tribute and Celebration

The entertainment industry has come together to pay tribute to Mitzi Gaynor, with many of her contemporaries and fans sharing their memories and condolences on social media. The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) has also released a statement honoring Gaynor's contributions to the world of entertainment.

Memorial Services

A memorial service for Mitzi Gaynor will be held at the Hollywood Bowl on April 20, 2021. The service will feature performances by some of Gaynor's former colleagues and friends, including Carol Burnett and Gary Morton.

Conclusion

Mitzi Gaynor's passing marks the end of an era in the entertainment industry. Her impact on the world of show business will be felt for generations to come, and her legacy will continue to inspire and entertain audiences around the world. As we bid farewell to this beloved Hollywood legend, we take comfort in the knowledge that her music, her performances, and her memory will live on forever.