Pepita Meliá was a Spanish-born American actress, celebrated for her performances in numerous stage musicals and zarzuelas. She is best remembered for her work with her husband, Benito Cibrián, and their successful theater company.
Personal and Family Life
Pepita Meliá was born in 1893 in Alicante, Spain. She married actor Benito Cibrián, and together they had one son, José Cibrián, who also became a notable actor. Pepita was the mother-in-law of actress Ana María Campoy, adding to her family’s artistic legacy, which includes her grandchildren, Roberto and José “Pepe” Cibrián Campoy.
Career Highlights
Meliá gained early fame in 1909 when she won a gold medal at a beauty pageant in Valencia. She showcased her talent in various stage performances, touring Latin America frequently with her husband. Despite performing in several films, she primarily remained a stage actress, with her last film role occurring in 1963.
Death and Legacy
Pepita Meliá passed away in November 1990 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, due to a heart attack. Her legacy lives on through her contributions to theater, and her family’s continued influence in the performing arts, demonstrating the lasting impact she had on the cultural landscape.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1963 | Los inocentes | Eloísa Errazquin (as Pepita Melia) | 6.6 |
| 1960 | Álamos talados | (as Pepita Melia) | 7.1 |
| 1958 | Amor prohibido | Madre de Alejandro (as Pepita Melia) | 5.5 |
| 1956 | Cubitos de hielo | (as Pepita Melia) | 4.6 |
| 1955 | El juramento de Lagardere | (as Pepita Melia) | 7.6 |
| 1947 | El secreto de Juan Palomo | (as Pepita Melia) | 2.9 |
| 1947 | El amor abrió los ojos | Doña Juana (as Pepita Melia) | |
| 1947 | Los siete niños de Écija | (as Pepita Melia) | 5.4 |