Introduction: Rita Moreno, an iconic actress, dancer, and singer, has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment throughout her career. From her groundbreaking roles in film and television to her powerful performances on stage, Moreno’s talent and charisma have captivated audiences for decades. In this blog post, we will explore 11 of her greatest movies and TV shows, showcasing the incredible range and versatility of this legendary artist.

1. “West Side Story” (1961): No list of Rita Moreno’s accomplishments would be complete without mentioning her iconic role as Anita in the film adaptation of “West Side Story.” Her powerful performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her the first Hispanic actress to win an Oscar.
2. “The Electric Company” (1971-1977): In this beloved educational children’s show, Moreno played multiple characters and brought joy and laughter to young viewers. Her energetic and vibrant presence on the show made her a household name.
3. “The Ritz” (1976): In this uproarious comedy, Moreno played Googie Gomez, a hilarious and over-the-top character who stole the show. Her comedic timing and larger-than-life portrayal earned her a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play.
4. “Cane” (2007): In this short-lived but critically acclaimed TV drama series, Moreno showcased her dramatic chops as Amalia Duque, the family matriarch of a wealthy Cuban-American sugar cane dynasty. Her performance was praised for its depth and complexity.
5. “Oz” (1997-2003): In this gritty HBO drama series set in a maximum-security prison, Moreno played Sister Peter Marie Reimondo. Her portrayal of the compassionate and conflicted nun added layers of humanity to the show’s intense narrative.
6. “The King and I” (1956): In this classic musical film adaptation, Moreno shone as Tuptim, one of the wives in the King of Siam’s court. Her spirited performance and exquisite dancing added an extra touch of magic to this beloved story.
7. “Singing in the Rain” (1952): Although Moreno had a small but memorable role as Zelda Zanders in this iconic musical, her performance stood out among the ensemble cast. Her comedic timing and lively dancing brought an infectious energy to the film.
8. “The Guardian” (2001-2004): In this legal drama TV series, Moreno portrayed the tough and nurturing grandmother, Victoria “Grammy” Parrish. Her heartfelt performance resonated with audiences and showcased her ability to bring depth to any character.
9. “Marlowe” (1969): In this film noir, Moreno played Dolores, a nightclub singer entangled in a web of mystery and danger. Her sultry performance added an air of intrigue to the film and showcased her versatility as an actress.
10. “Happily Divorced” (2011-2013): In this sitcom inspired by Fran Drescher’s real-life experiences, Moreno portrayed Dori, the sassy and outspoken mother of Drescher’s character. Her comedic chemistry with the cast added laughter and heart to the show.
11. “Carmen Miranda: Bananas Is My Business” (1995): In this documentary, Moreno narrated the life story of the legendary Brazilian actress and singer, Carmen Miranda. Her narration brought depth and insight to the captivating tale of a trailblazing entertainer.

Conclusion: Rita Moreno’s illustrious career has been filled with memorable performances across film, television, and stage. From her Oscar-winning role in “West Side Story” to her charismatic characters in TV shows like “The Electric Company