Cyd Charisse, Actress, Dancer Dead At 86

Cyd Charisse, born Tula Ellice Finklea on March 8, 1922, in Amarillo, Texas, was a talented American dancer and actress who gained fame for her roles in Technicolor musicals during the 1940s and 1950s. She started her dance journey at a young age, taking ballet lessons, and at the age of 13, she joined the Ballet Russe.

In 1939, she married her former dance teacher, Nico Charisse, and took on the stage name Cyd Charisse. She went on to star in several successful Hollywood musicals, including "Singin' in the

Rain" (1952) with Gene Kelly, "The Band Wagon" (1953) with Fred Astaire, and "Silk Stockings" (1957), also with Astaire.

Her fame in the entertainment industry extended beyond dancing, as she also acted in dramatic films and appeared in various television shows. Her talent and exceptional dancing skills, combined with her striking beauty, made her an icon in the world of classic Hollywood musicals.

Charisse passed away on June 17, 2008, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 86, due to an apparent heart attack. Her contributions to the world of dance and film continue to be celebrated and remembered, as she remains an inspiration to many aspiring dancers and actors.

Cyd Charisse's classical training in ballet equipped her with remarkable versatility as a dancer, allowing her to perform a wide range of styles effortlessly. In the 1946 film "Ziegfeld Follies," she showcased her skill in a pas de deux, while in "The Band Wagon" (1956), she exhibited her ability to adapt to more comedic routines alongside Fred Astaire.

Charisse's talents extended beyond the big screen as she formed a popular song-and-dance partnership with her second husband, singer Tony Martin. Together, they made numerous appearances on television and in nightclubs, mesmerizing audiences with their chemistry and talent.

Standing at 5 feet, 6 inches tall, Charisse was known for her graceful and elegant presence, which was further enhanced by her signature high heels and full-length stockings. Her poise and elongated lines, coupled with her impressive dance skills, made her a captivating figure on stage and in films.

Despite her successful career, Charisse remained humble and dedicated to her craft. She once said, "I think a lot of dancing is a trick.

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