Oscar-Winning Actor George Chakiris ('West Side Story') Turns 92

Photo byflickriver.com

Actor/dancer/singer George Chakiris, who won an Oscar and a Golden Globe for playing Bernardo in the original West Side Story feature film (1961), is 92 years old. Here's a brief look back at his life and career.

A Closer Look

Geoge Charkis was born on September 16, 1932, in Norwood, Ohio, the son of Greek immigrants. He has made over twenty movies, and has performed in several acclaimed mini-series in Europe and Japan, BBC performances, and concert tours in Las Vegas and around the world.

Before the Movie

In the late 1950s, George Chakiris was cast as Riff, leader of the Jets, in the London live stage production of West Side Story. He was later cast as Riff’s arch rival, Bernardo, in the now-famous motion picture based on the musical play.

Before that, Chakiris appeared in other movies with cinematic legends such as Cyd Charisse, Mitzi Gaynor, Donald O’Connor, Debbie Reynolds, Danny Kaye, Bing Crosby, Gene Kelly and Rosemary Clooney.

Those films include There’s No Business Like Show Business, White Christmas, and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, starring Marilyn Monroe.

In 1991, the French Government’s Minister of Culture awarded George the status of “Officier de L’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres” for his contributions to the Arts.

Chakiris is also the recipient of the Dizzy Feet Foundation’s “Impact Award” (2015) and Tremaine’s “Legendary Entertainer of the Year” Award (2017).

In the Big Picture Scheme of Things

Considered one of the most unaffected performers in the entertainment industry, George Chakiris generously shares his legacy, knowledge and experiences with aspiring artists in the performing arts.