For some, he was Khan from "Star Trek". For others, the images of the Chrysler Cordoba and all that "rich Corinthian leather". Then there's his turn on "Fantasy Island" as Mr. Roarke, the host ("Smiles, everyone, smiles!").
Ricardo Montalban died yesterday at the age of 88. No cause was given.
Montalban was a film star in Mexico before MGM "discovered" him and brought him to Hollywood in the late 1940s. In an era where Latin lovers always had slicked back hair, the wispy moustache, and the smooth demeanor, Ricardo fought to break free from those stereotypes.
He had starring roles in musicals, war dramas, westerns, and police mysteries - all in secondary roles. When MGM dropped him in 1953, Ricardo took to the stage, appearing in Broadway plays and musicals, still making the occasional movie and television role.
From 1965 to 1970, Montalban was the President of the Screen Actor's Guild. When his tenure ended, he formed Nosotros Foundation to help improve the image and increase employment of Latinos throughout the entertainment industry.
Ricardo recorded one Christmas song that I know of - our friend Ernie shared it back in 2006: "La Campanilla". His narration of a simple Christmas story is a highlight - add a wonderful score by Randy Newman and the two conjure up images that must be heard to be believed.
To honor Montalban's memory, I offer this Christmas PSA:
Ricardo Montalban - 1965 Christmas Seals Campaign
Thank you for helping change Hollywood's thinking of Latinos, Mr. Montalban.
Capt
3 comments:
He's not the only one that passed.... #6 is no more! Matt M.
Another Christmas music connection -- this is not a Christmas song but often appears on more "secular" holiday albums -- Ricardo Montalban and Esther Williams duetted on "Baby, It's Cold Outside" by Frank Loesser in the film Neptune's Daughter. The film featured two renditions, the other by Red Skelton and Betty Garrett, and the song won the Oscar for Best Original Song that year (1949). Vaya con dios, Ricardo.
Ricardo Montalban must have been a contender for Lady's Man of the year at least a few times during his lifetime
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