Cyd Charisse

Early Life

Cyd Charisse, born Tula Ellice Finklea on March 8, 1922, in Amarillo, Texas, was the daughter of Lela and Ernest Enos Finklea, Sr., a jeweler. Nicknamed "Sid" by her older brother, she later adopted the spelling "Cyd" thanks to Arthur Freed. Charisse faced health challenges as a child, suffering from polio, which led her to take up dancing at the age of six to strengthen her body. By twelve, she was studying ballet in Los Angeles under renowned instructors and, at fourteen, she joined the Ballet Russe de Monte-Carlo, performing under the name "Felia Siderova". Her early life was marked by a passion for dance that would define her career.

Career

Cyd Charisse's film career began in the early 1940s with uncredited roles, but she quickly gained recognition after returning to Los Angeles during World War II. She caught the eye of choreographer Robert Alton and joined the Freed Unit at MGM, becoming the studio's resident ballet dancer. Charisse's breakthrough came with her role in the 1946 film "The Harvey Girls", followed by notable performances in "Ziegfeld Follies" and "Till the Clouds Roll By". Her captivating dance style and on-screen presence led to her becoming one of the most celebrated dancers of her time, often collaborating with stars like Fred Astaire and Judy Garland.

Personal Life

Cyd Charisse was married twice; her first marriage to Greek-born Nico Charisse in 1939 produced a son, Nicky, but ended in divorce in 1947. In 1948, she married singer Tony Martin, with whom she remained until her death in 2008, and they had a son, Tony Martin, Jr. Charisse was politically active, supporting the Republican Party and campaigning for candidates like Barry Goldwater and Richard Nixon. She was also the aunt of actress Nana Visitor, showcasing her family's ties to the entertainment industry. Charisse passed away on June 17, 2008, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering dancer and actress.