Rita Moreno

Born:December 11, 1931

Place of Birth:Humacao, Puerto Rico

Known For:Acting

Biography

Rita Moreno, born Rosa Dolores Alverío Marcano on December 11, 1931, is a Puerto Rican icon in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning over seven decades, Moreno has left an indelible mark on film, television, and theater with her versatile talents as an actress, dancer, and singer.

Throughout her illustrious career, Moreno has graced the silver screen with memorable performances in classic musical films such as "Singin' in the Rain," "The King and I," and both the 1961 and 2021 adaptations of "West Side Story." Her filmography also includes standout roles in movies like "Popi," "Carnal Knowledge," and "Slums of Beverly Hills," showcasing her range and depth as an actress.

On the small screen, Moreno has captivated audiences with her roles in television series like "The Electric Company" and "Oz," where she portrayed Sister Peter Marie Reimondo. She also lent her voice to the beloved character Carmen Sandiego in the animated series "Where on Earth Is Carmen Sandiego?" from 1994 to 1999, further showcasing her versatility as a performer.

In addition to her film and television work, Moreno has made a significant impact in the world of theater, most notably for her portrayal of Googie Gomez in the 1975 musical "The Ritz." Her stage presence and talent have earned her accolades and cemented her status as a triple threat in the entertainment industry.

Rita Moreno's list of accolades is as impressive as her body of work. As one of the select few to achieve EGOT status - winning an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony - she has solidified her place in entertainment history. Her contributions have not gone unnoticed, as she has been honored with prestigious awards like the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the National Medal of Arts, the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award, and a Kennedy Center Honor.

In 2021, Moreno's extraordinary life and career were the focus of the documentary "Rita Moreno: Just a Girl Who Decided to Go for It," shedding light on her journey to success and the barriers she broke in the industry. Rita Moreno's impact on American culture through the performing arts is immeasurable, and her legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and audiences alike.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Fast X

Abuelita

2023

Over many missions and against impossible odds, Dom Toretto and his family have outsmarted, out-nerved and outdriven every foe in their path. Now, they confront the most lethal opponent they've ever faced: A terrifying threat emerging from the shadows of the past who's fueled by blood revenge, and who is determined to shatter this family and destroy everything—and everyone—that Dom loves, forever.

Rio 2

Aunt Mimi (voice)

2014

It's a jungle out there for Blu, Jewel and their three kids after they're hurtled from Rio de Janeiro to the wilds of the Amazon. As Blu tries to fit in, he goes beak-to-beak with the vengeful Nigel, and meets the most fearsome adversary of all: his father-in-law.

Family Switch

Angelica

2023

When the Walker family members switch bodies with each other during a rare planetary alignment, their hilarious journey to find their way back to normal will bring them closer together than they ever thought possible.

Singin' in the Rain

Zelda Zanders

1952

In 1927 Hollywood, a silent film production company and cast make a difficult transition to sound.

West Side Story

Valentina

2021

Two youngsters from rival New York City gangs fall in love, but tensions between their respective friends build toward tragedy.

West Side Story

Anita

1961

In the slums of the upper West Side of Manhattan, tensions are high as a gang of Polish-Americans compete against a gang of recently immigrated Puerto Ricans, but this doesn't stop two romantics from each gang falling in love.

80 for Brady

Maura

2023

Four lifelong friends set out on an unforgettable journey to see their hero Tom Brady play in Super Bowl LI and witness one of the greatest comebacks in sports history, discovering that it's never too late to live life to the fullest. Inspired by a true story.

My Father's Dragon

Mrs. McClaren (voice)

2022

Struggling to cope after a move to the city with his mother, Elmer runs away in search of Wild Island and a young dragon who waits to be rescued. Elmer’s adventures introduce him to ferocious beasts, a mysterious island and the friendship of a lifetime.

The King and I

Tuptim

1956

Widowed Welsh mother Anna Loenowens becomes a governess and English tutor to the wives and many children of the stubborn King Mongkut of Siam. Anna and the King have a clash of personalities as she works to teach the royal family about the English language, customs and etiquette, and rushes to prepare a party for a group of European diplomats who must change their opinions about the King.

Marlowe

Dolores Gonzáles

1969

Mysterious Orfamay Quest hires Los Angeles private investigator Philip Marlowe to find her missing brother. Though the job seems simple enough, it leads Marlowe into the underbelly of the city, turning up leads who are murdered with ice picks, exotic dancers, blackmailed television stars and self-preserving gangsters. Soon, Marlowe's life is on the line right along with his case.

Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration

Narrator (voice)

2022

In honor of the 30th anniversary of the animated classic, this animated and live-action blended special showcases the fan-favorite movie, along with new musical performances, sets and costumes inspired by the classic story.

Production

West Side Story

Executive Producer

2021

Two youngsters from rival New York City gangs fall in love, but tensions between their respective friends build toward tragedy.