Mitzi Gaynor, ‘South Pacific’ Star, passed away at the age of 93
Mitzi Gaynor, the beloved actress, dancer, and singer, passed away at the age of 93 on Thursday, October 17, 2024, her management team announced. Known for her unforgettable role as Nellie Forbush in the 1958 musical South Pacific, Gaynor was a major star of Hollywood’s golden age of musicals.
An Icon of Hollywood Musicals
Gaynor rose to fame during the 1950s, starring in films alongside legends like Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Gene Kelly. Her biggest hit, South Pacific, was the highest-grossing film of 1958 and earned her a Golden Globe nomination. Despite competition from stars like Elizabeth Taylor for the role, Gaynor embraced the opportunity to audition, a move that landed her the part.
Her other film successes included There’s No Business Like Show Business (1954), Anything Goes (1956), and The Joker Is Wild (1957). Her final film appearance came in For Love or Money (1963) with Kirk Douglas. After her film career slowed, she transitioned to television, starring in a series of Emmy-winning TV specials from 1967 to 1978.
A Life in the Spotlight
Born Francesca Marlene de Czanyi von Gerber on September 4, 1931, in Chicago, Gaynor grew up in a creative household—her father was a musician, and her mother a dancer. At age 11, her family moved to Los Angeles to support her dream of stardom, and at 17, she signed a contract with 20th Century Fox. To fit Hollywood’s image, her last name was changed to Gaynor.
She married Jack Bean in 1954, who became her lifelong manager. Reflecting on their relationship, Gaynor once said, “He had the bluest eyes I’ve ever seen in my life. God, I loved him.” They were married until his death in 2006.
A Vibrant and Joyful Entertainer
Throughout her career, Gaynor was known for her dazzling energy and humor. Her Emmy-winning TV specials showcased her talents as both a singer and dancer, featuring elaborate musical numbers. “My legs looked better in very high heels,” she once quipped about performing in four-inch stilettos.
She appeared regularly on The Ed Sullivan Show, The Tonight Show, and other variety programs, sharing the stage with icons like Bob Hope and Danny Thomas. On one notable episode of The Ed Sullivan Show in 1964, she shared the spotlight with The Beatles, who asked for her autograph.
Her talents extended beyond performance—her close friends fondly remembered her as a warm and funny presence, with her managers adding, “And she could cook, too!”
Honoring Her Legacy
In their tribute, her managers Rene Reyes and Shane Rosamonda said, “Mitzi was a vibrant and extraordinary woman, a caring and loyal friend, and a warm, gracious, very funny, and altogether glorious human being.” Gaynor often told audiences, “You are the sunshine of my life,” and cherished the joy she brought to fans.
In 1960, Gaynor received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to her impact on the entertainment world. Her remarkable career spanned over five decades, performing on stage, film, and television. A 2008 documentary, Mitzi Gaynor: Razzle Dazzle! The Special Years, celebrated her TV legacy.
Mitzi Gaynor will be remembered as a radiant performer whose passion for entertaining never waned. “Home life is just fine,” she once said, “but I go on tour to get my rest.” Her light will continue to shine through her films, specials, and the memories of those who loved her.
