Rita Hayworth was an American actress and dancer who became one of Hollywood’s most glamorous and iconic stars of the 1940s. Born Margarita Carmen Cansino on October 17, 1918, in Brooklyn, New York, she came from a family of dancers and was trained in classical dance from a young age. Her career began in the 1930s when she appeared in a series of small film roles under her birth name. However, it was only after she changed her name to Rita Hayworth and underwent a Hollywood makeover—lightening her hair and reshaping her image—that she became a major star.

Hayworth’s breakthrough came with films such as Only Angels Have Wings (1939) and The Strawberry Blonde (1941), where she quickly established herself as a leading lady. However, it was her performance in Gilda (1946) that solidified her place as a Hollywood legend. Her portrayal of the sultry and mysterious Gilda, particularly in the famous scene where she sings “Put the Blame on Mame” while sensually removing her gloves, made her one of the most famous femme fatales in film history. The role transformed her into a symbol of glamour and sensuality, earning her the nickname “The Love Goddess.”

Despite her on-screen success, Hayworth’s personal life was often troubled. She was married five times, including to Orson Welles and Prince Aly Khan. Her relationship with Welles was passionate but tumultuous, while her marriage to Prince Aly Khan made her an international figure of royalty and celebrity. However, none of her marriages lasted, and she often spoke of struggling to find happiness in her personal life. The pressures of Hollywood, along with personal disappointments, took a toll on her emotional well-being.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Hayworth continued acting, though her career slowed down as Hollywood shifted toward new trends and younger stars. She appeared in films such as Pal Joey (1957) and Separate Tables (1958), demonstrating her ability to take on more mature roles. However, by the late 1960s, her health began to decline, and she started showing early signs of what was later diagnosed as Alzheimer’s disease. At the time, her behavior was often misunderstood, and she struggled with memory loss, which made working in films increasingly difficult.

Rita Hayworth passed away on May 14, 1987, at the age of 68. Her death brought widespread attention to Alzheimer’s disease, helping to raise awareness and funding for research into the condition. Despite the struggles she faced later in life, Hayworth remains one of the most enduring and beloved stars of classic Hollywood. Her beauty, talent, and unforgettable performances continue to captivate audiences, ensuring that her legacy as one of the greatest actresses of the Golden Age of Hollywood lives on.