Sure I remember Ricardo Montalban from Star Trek and Fantasy Island and the "soft Corinthian leather" car commercials.
Some time ago, I came across the picture above, but I don't recall where anymore.
Ricardo was a founding member of Nosotros, designed to "strategically change the stereotypical image portrayed by Latino actors." There is a theater named after him and affiliated with the organization at 1615 Vine Street in Hollywood.
But perhaps his greatest legacy I learned about from my friend Deborah, who found this:
or here.
Ricardo Montalban sings for Esther Williams the song that has become a classic, "Baby It's Cold Outside" in the 1949 movie "Neptune's Daughter"; the film co-starred Red Skelton. "Baby, It's Cold Outside" won an Oscar that year for Best Original Song. Unless the Oscar rules have changed, this is likely the first performance of the perennial tune.
Ricardo is still around at the age of 88, doing occasional voice work.
ROG
KHAAAAAAAAAN!!!!!
ReplyDeleteSmiles everybody smiles!
ReplyDeleteYou have to give the man credit -- He made cheap, vinyl seats sound like something you would actually want in your car.
ReplyDeleteGreat information. I don't know him, but it was great that through your blog, I was able to know about it.
ReplyDeleteMy M entries are posted here and here. Please drop by if you have time. Thanks a lot!
Lovely memories, and photos.
ReplyDeleteRay
I don't recall the film star but 'Baby it's cold outside' certainly rings a bell. So it was HIS voice I've heard all these years!
ReplyDeleteGoing to be one of the most original choices.
ReplyDeleteYou're kidding!
ReplyDeleteHe's still alive??
Wow.
interesting post.
Yes, now you mention some of the things he's done I do know him, but I didn't know his name. Looking at IMDB, he's a hard worker!
ReplyDeleteOh but that was lovely! I have often heard this song!
ReplyDeleteI didn't know he was still alive.
ReplyDeleteHe was the perfect Latino man in the movies.
I used to love watching Fantasy Island.
*De plane boss, De plane!"
Bear((( )))
I love his accent!
ReplyDeleteHe always appealed to me, too. He has such a richly toned voice that goes along perfectly with his ruggedly handsome looks. :D
ReplyDeleteI so agree with Leslie....I have always loved his voice and enjoyed him in films.....this youtube was fabulous! I haven't heard this song in years.......thanks for sharing....and I will NEVER forget the insect in his or someone's ear.....aaaaggghhhh!!
ReplyDeleteSuch an example of suavity and sophistication. I love his voice. But I was never able to stay awake all the way through the Wrath of Khan--no matter where I was or how many times I tried. My M
ReplyDeleteHe does have a beautiful voice! 88 and still kickin'? You gotta love that : )! Hope you have a delightful weekend. God bless.
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