José Ferrer was an American actor and director, best known for his performances in Cyrano de Bergerac, Moulin Rouge, and Lawrence of Arabia. He was born on January 8, 1912, in Santurce, Puerto Rico, and became the first Puerto Rican and first Hispanic actor to win an Academy Award.
Personal and Family Life
José Ferrer was born to a family with a rich heritage in Puerto Rico. His father, Rafael Ferrer, was a lawyer and a writer, while his mother, María Providencia Cintrón, hailed from Yabucoa. Ferrer married four times, with his most notable marriage being to actress Rosemary Clooney, with whom he had five children.
Career Highlights
Ferrer made a name for himself on Broadway before transitioning to film. He is mostly remembered for his titular role in “Cyrano de Bergerac,” which won him an Oscar. Over the years, he acted in numerous successful films, showcasing his talent in both leading and supporting roles, as well as venturing into directing.
Death and Legacy
José Ferrer passed away on January 26, 1992, due to colorectal cancer at the age of 80. He left a lasting legacy in the arts, not just for his accomplishments as an actor and director, but also for paving the way for future generations of Hispanic artists in Hollywood. Ferrer was buried in Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.