Mitzi Gaynor, ‘South Pacific’ Star, Dies at 93
Mitzi Gaynor, the vibrant dancer and actress renowned for her role in the 1958 movie adaptation of ‘South Pacific,’ has passed away at the age of 93. She died of natural causes in Los Angeles on Thursday, October 17, 2024.
Gaynor was one of the final icons from the so-called golden era of entertainment. Her career spanned an impressive eight decades, encompassing film, television, and stage performances. She remains most celebrated for her role in ‘South Pacific,’ which garnered three Academy Award nominations, winning for best sound, and earned her a Golden Globe nomination for best actress.
Gaynor also graced the stage alongside legends such as Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, and Gene Kelly in various musicals. She starred in a series of Emmy-winning TV specials and was known for her saucy vitality and blond beauty. Her last film appearance came in 1963, and she began to focus on television, starring in eight TV specials that showcased her singing and dancing.
In a collective statement, Rene Reyes and Shane Rosamonda expressed, “As we honor her legacy, we extend our gratitude to her friends, fans, and the myriad audiences she captivated throughout her remarkable life. Your love, encouragement, and recognition were incredibly meaningful to her and a source of strength”.
