Was Rita Moreno in the original West Side Story?

Rita Moreno says she almost said no to Steven Spielberg on ‘West Side Story’ role. A cameo would have been ‘a distraction,’ says the actress from the 1961 original, but ultimately she agreed to a heftier part.

Who is Rita Moreno in the new West Side Story?

Moreno, 89, won the best supporting actress Oscar playing Anita, the dynamic and fiercely loyal girlfriend of Sharks leader Bernardo (George Chakiris) and a confidante to his younger sister, Maria (Natalie Wood).

Did they darken their skin in West Side Story?

Many will recall her confessing only a couple of years back that her skin was actually painted darker for the original West Side Story; maybe she’s using her own personal experiences regarding diversity to stand up for a man whose creativity spawns from embracing his Puerto Rican self.

What kind of person is Rita Moreno?

Rita Moreno, in full Rosita Dolores Alverio, (born December 11, 1931, Humacao, Puerto Rico), Puerto Rican-born American actress, dancer, and singer who accomplished the rare feat of winning the four major North American entertainment awards (EGOT): Emmy (1977, 1978), Grammy (1972), Oscar (1962), and Tony (1975).

Who is Valentina in West Side Story?

Moreno will also serve as an executive producer of the film. She won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Anita in the 1961 film version of “West Side Story.” In the new “West Side Story,” Moreno will be playing Valentina, a reconceived version of the character of Doc, the owner of the corner store in which Tony works.

Who is Rita Moreno’s daughter?

Rita Moreno’s daughter, Fernanda Luisa Gordon, bears a striking resemblance to her mother. Moreover, she is an actress too.

Is Rita Moreno alive?

Rita Moreno was born on December 11, 1931 and is 87 years old now. Rita Moreno Death Fact Check. Rosita is alive and kicking and is currently 87 years old.