Cast Of West Side Story Where Are They Now
West Side Story is a legendary musical that has captured the hearts of audiences ever since it premiered on Broadway in 1957. It tells the story of two rival gangs - the Jets and the Sharks - and the romance that develops between Tony, a former Jet, and Maria, the sister of the Sharks' leader. The musical was adapted into a film in 1961, which went on to win ten Academy Awards. The cast of West Side Story was made up of some of the most talented actors and dancers of their time. Here's a look at where they are now.
Natalie Wood
Natalie Wood played Maria, the female lead in West Side Story. She was already an established actress by the time she landed the role, having starred in films like Rebel Without a Cause and Splendor in the Grass. After West Side Story, Wood continued to work in Hollywood, appearing in movies like Gypsy and Love with the Proper Stranger. Sadly, Wood passed away in 1981 under mysterious circumstances. Her death is still the subject of speculation and controversy.
Richard Beymer
Richard Beymer played Tony, the male lead in West Side Story. Before landing the role, Beymer had appeared in films like The Diary of Anne Frank and The Longest Day. After West Side Story, Beymer continued to act, appearing in movies like The Stripper and The Inn of the Sixth Happiness. He also had a successful career as a director, working on films like The Greengage Summer and The Best of Friends.
Rita Moreno
Rita Moreno played Anita, the fiery girlfriend of the Sharks' leader. Moreno was already a well-known actress by the time she was cast in West Side Story, having won an Academy Award for her role in the film version of The King and I. After West Side Story, Moreno continued to work in Hollywood, appearing in films like Marlowe and The Night of the Following Day. She also had success on television, winning an Emmy Award for her role in The Rockford Files.
George Chakiris
George Chakiris played Bernardo, the leader of the Sharks. Chakiris was already an accomplished dancer before he was cast in West Side Story, having worked as a soloist with the American Ballet Theatre. After the film's success, Chakiris continued to work in Hollywood, appearing in movies like Diamond Head and 633 Squadron. He also had a successful career as a stage actor, appearing in productions of The King and I and Company.
Russ Tamblyn
Russ Tamblyn played Riff, the leader of the Jets. Tamblyn was already a well-known actor by the time he was cast in West Side Story, having appeared in films like Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and Peyton Place. After West Side Story, Tamblyn continued to work in Hollywood, appearing in movies like The Haunting and Drive. He also had success on television, appearing in shows like Twin Peaks and General Hospital.
Bonus: Steven Spielberg's West Side Story
In 2021, a new film adaptation of West Side Story will be released, directed by none other than Steven Spielberg. The film stars Ansel Elgort as Tony and newcomer Rachel Zegler as Maria. Rita Moreno also appears in the film, this time in a new role. The film promises to be a fresh take on the classic musical, with a new cast of talented actors and dancers.