Press Play with Madeleine Brand
Rita Moreno reflects on lifetime of acting
Rita Moreno’s career-defining role was in the 1961 film “West Side Story.” Her role as a Puerto Rican immigrant named Anita earned her an Oscar, making her the first Latina to win the esteemed award.
By Madeleine Brand • • 49m ListenRita Moreno’s career-defining role was in the 1961 film “West Side Story.” Her role as a Puerto Rican immigrant named Anita earned her an Oscar, making her the first Latina to win the esteemed award. She eventually earned EGOT status — the honor bestowed upon entertainers who win all four major entertainment awards (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony). Moreno talks about her early years in Hollywood, handling sexual assault on and off the screen, and her relationship with Marlon Brando.
Also, KCRW remembers Mexican ranchera singer Vicente Fernández.
In this episode
3 storiesNewsom takes legal stand on assault weapons distribution
Governor Gavin Newsom announced he’ll push lawmakers to pass legislation that would allow Californians to sue anyone who makes, distributes, or sells assault weapons or so-called “ghost guns.”
Read the story10 minRita Moreno on ‘West Side Story,’ race in Hollywood, and trauma
Moreno talks about her early years in Hollywood, handling sexual assault on and off the screen, and her relationship with Marlon Brando.
Read the story30 minVicente Fernández: Remembering the Mexican ranchera music icon
“El Rey” (the king) of ranchera music Vicente Fernández died on Sunday at age 81. Nicknamed “Chente,” Fernández was known for his songs about longing, love, loss, and heartbreak.
Read the story9 min
