In the 1940s, Hayworth was box office gold when she partnered with Fred Astaire or Gene Kelly – and she was the first dancer to partner with both superstars on film. Hayworth loved that period in her career – when she looked back years later, she noted, "I guess the only jewels of my life were the pictures I made with Fred Astaire." Twenty-five years after her death, we're remembering Rita Hayworth the way we think she would have wanted – as a dancer. Here are a few classic clips showcasing her fantastic talent – as well as her great chemistry with both Astaire and Kelly. Some snazzy tap from Hayworth and Astaire:
Phil Silvers joins Hayworth and Kelly in Cover Girl. Hayworth's vocals were dubbed, but the great dancing is 100% genuine.
And one more with Hayworth and Astaire – since she remembered their films so fondly, and for Astaire's part, he said Hayworth was his favorite dancing partner.
Written by Linnea Crowther