LOS ANGELES — Mitzi Gaynor, a luminary of Hollywood musicals celebrated for her multi-talented prowess in singing, dancing, and acting, died at age 93. Her longtime managers, Rene Reyes and Shane Rosamonda, confirmed she passed away from natural causes on the morning of Oct. 17 in Los Angeles.
Born Francesca Marlene de Czanyi von Gerber in Chicago, Illinois, Gaynor’s passion for the performing arts ignited early and set the stage for a career spanning over eight decades. Her roles in film, television, and theater have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Her most iconic role was as Ensign Nellie Forbush in the 1958 movie adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “South Pacific.” The role not only earned her a Golden Globe nomination but also spotlighted her as a formidable actress in the cinematic world. “South Pacific” itself was a critical success, securing three Academy Award nominations and winning in the best sound category.
Gaynor credited Frank Sinatra for significantly shaping her career trajectory. While co-starring with Sinatra in “The Joker Is Wild,” Gaynor seized the opportunity to audition for Oscar Hammerstein II. Sinatra, understanding the potential impact of the audition on her career, adjusted their filming schedule to allow her the chance to demonstrate her talent.
During the 1950s, Gaynor’s career flourished as she starred in numerous musicals, including “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “Les Girls,” and “Anything Goes.” Her dynamic presence and talents distinguished her as a standout performer of the era.
As the allure of film musicals waned in the 1960s, Gaynor adeptly pivoted to television and live performances. She became a familiar face on variety shows and from 1967 to 1978 hosted her own acclaimed TV specials, which garnered 16 Emmy nominations.
Under the guidance of her husband and manager, Jack Bean, Gaynor became a prominent figure on the stage as well. She dominated as a lead performer in Las Vegas, where she earned the distinction of being the city’s highest-paid female entertainer. Her musical revue enjoyed widespread success, touring across the U.S., Canada, UK, and Australia.
In a historic milestone for Las Vegas entertainers, Gaynor was awarded the governor’s trophy in 1970, becoming the first woman to be named “Star Entertainer of the Year.”
Gaynor’s personal life was characterized by her enduring marriage to Jack Bean, a talent agent and public relations executive. The couple, who married in 1954, enjoyed a devoted partnership until Bean’s death in 2006. They resided in Beverly Hills and had no children.
Even into her later years, Gaynor continued to captivate audiences with her energy and charisma. From 2008 to 2011, she toured with her show “Mitzi … Razzle Dazzle! My Life Behind the Sequins,” reflecting on her illustrious life and career.
Her contributions to the arts were recognized in 2017 when she was inducted into the Great American Songbook Hall of Fame, confirming her status as a legendary figure in American entertainment.
Reflecting on her passing, Gaynor’s managers, Reyes and Rosamonda, expressed their deep gratitude for the love and support she received throughout her career: “As we celebrate her legacy, our thanks go out to her legion of friends and fans, and to the audiences she entertained. Your appreciation was a sustaining gift in her life.”
With Gaynor’s death, the entertainment world marks the end of an era that celebrated the golden age of musicals, honoring a career that was as varied as it was splendid.