Rita Moreno Reveals Her Three Most Memorable Acting Roles
Rita Moreno looks back on her legendary career, sharing why her roles in West Side Story, Oz, and The Miracle Worker stand out as her most cherished performances.
In 1961, Rita Moreno delivered a performance that would define her career, stepping into the role of Anita in West Side Story. Her portrayal not only earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress but also made her a household name. Yet, Moreno’s journey in entertainment began long before that iconic moment. She started performing on stage in the 1940s and soon transitioned to film, landing parts in classics like Garden of Evil and Singin’ in the Rain. Her early work showcased her versatility, blending musical talent with dramatic skill.
West Side Story: A Defining Moment
Moreno’s turn as Anita remains her most celebrated achievement. The film, a modern adaptation of Romeo and Juliet set in New York’s Upper West Side, follows the lives of rival teenage gangs. Moreno played Anita, the spirited confidante of Maria and girlfriend to Bernardo. Her dynamic presence and emotional depth brought the character to life, captivating audiences and critics alike.
“That became an iconic role for me. It ’s a role that made me known worldwide, more than anything,”
she reflected. Her performance inspired future generations, including Rachel Zegler, who starred in the recent remake and credited Moreno’s trailblazing work for paving the way.
Breaking New Ground in Oz
While Moreno’s film career is legendary, she also made a significant impact on television. In the 1990s, she joined the cast of Oz, a gritty drama set in a men’s prison. Moreno took on the role of a nun and psychologist, a part that was unlike anything she had done before.
“I was absolutely in shock when it was offered to me. My God, the casting in that show was extraordinary. And every year they’d bring in some new actor to play a new prisoner and it would be somebody incredible. Not a star, but an incredible actor. It was fantastic.”
The experience challenged her as an actress and became one of the most fulfilling chapters of her career.
The Miracle Worker: A Return to the Stage
Despite her success on screen, Moreno never lost her passion for theater. Among her favorite stage roles was playing Anne Sullivan in The Miracle Worker, the story of Helen Keller’s determined teacher. Moreno described the experience as one of the most rewarding of her life, embracing the challenge of portraying an Irish woman and bringing depth to the character.
“I did a lot of theatre outside of Broadway. I think one of the things I really loved doing was playing Anne Sullivan in The Miracle Worker. I played an Irish girl in that and it was just wonderful and one of the best experiences I ever had.”
The role allowed her to reconnect with her theatrical roots and left a lasting impression on her career.