Mitzi Gaynor, the talented singer, dancer, and actress known for her captivating performances in classic movie musicals like “South Pacific,” passed away on Thursday at the age of 93. Her representatives confirmed she died of natural causes in Los Angeles.
Gaynor’s illustrious career spanned over eight decades, with her starring in numerous musicals during the 1950s, including “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “Anything Goes,” “Les Girls,” and the film adaptation of the acclaimed “South Pacific.” She famously outperformed several Hollywood icons, such as Doris Day, Elizabeth Taylor, and Susan Hayward, to land the lead role of Navy nurse Nellie Forbush in “South Pacific,” a performance that catapulted her to international stardom and earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
Following the peak of her film career, Gaynor transitioned to live performances as musicals began to decline in popularity. She made a notable nightclub debut at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas in 1961, where her four-week residency broke box office records.
Gaynor was also a recognizable face on television, appearing as a guest on “The Ed Sullivan Show” during the same episode that featured The Beatles’ second U.S. television performance, which attracted 70 million viewers. Throughout her TV career, she was a guest on variety shows hosted by legends like Frank Sinatra, Jack Benny, and Perry Como, and starred in numerous hit specials showcasing her singing and dancing talents.
In 2019, at the age of 88, Gaynor continued to perform live, although a leg injury required her to sing while seated. She expressed a desire to return to the stage fully.
Born Francesca Mitzi Marlene de Czanyi von Gerber on September 4, 1931, in Chicago, her journey in entertainment began at a young age. After her parents divorced, she moved to Detroit with her mother and began classical ballet training. Gaynor made her Broadway debut at 15 in “Gypsy Lady” and soon signed with 20th Century Fox, adopting the screen name Gaynor. Her breakthrough came with roles in “My Blue Heaven” and “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” which showcased her talents alongside notable stars.
Later in her career, Gaynor became the highest-paid female entertainer in Las Vegas, earning the title of “Star Entertainer of the Year” in 1970. She was also the first high-profile client of renowned costume designer Bob Mackie and was inducted into The Great American Songbook Hall of Fame in 2017.
Gaynor reflected on her brief romance with billionaire Howard Hughes in a 2019 interview, noting the peculiar circumstances surrounding their relationship.
Her legacy as a versatile and beloved performer will be remembered by generations of fans.