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Emmy-Winning 'South Pacific' Star Mitzi Gaynor Dies at 93

Oct 17, 2024, 05:12 PM

Legendary actress, singer, and dancer Mitzi Gaynor, born Francesca Marlene de Czanyi von Gerber, best known for her role as Nellie Forbush in the 1958 film "South Pacific," died on Thursday, October 17, 2024, in Los Angeles, her management team confirmed. She was 93. Gaynor's career spanned eight decades across film, television, and stage. She appeared in Hollywood musicals alongside stars such as Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, and Gene Kelly, including "Les Girls" and "Anything Goes." Her signature performance of "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair" became iconic. In the 1970s, she was celebrated for her series of variety specials on television, often sporting unforgettable Bob Mackie costumes, showcasing her razzle-dazzle flair and earning her an Emmy Award. Gaynor also headlined Las Vegas stages with her dynamic cabaret acts. Known as a showbiz dynamo with saucy vitality and blond beauty, she was among the last surviving actors from the golden age of Hollywood musicals.