David Nezelek
Cibbuano
TyronneRicardo Montalban goes with Khan
January 15th 2009 21:48
A last wave to Ricardo Montalban
Ricardo Montalban on Fantasy Island
It is with sadness that I reflect on the loss of the unique talents of Ricardo Montalban who passed away on January 14 2009.
Bubbling with charisma and exotic charms, Ricardo Montalban broke through stereotypes to become a respected figure in Hollywood. His legacy, the part of Khan Noonien Singh in the original Star Trek and second Feature film titled the Wrath of Khan. His portrayal of the enigmatic Mr Roarke on the original Fantasy Island is an equally important pop culture benchmark.
Ricardo Gonzalo Pedro Montalbán Merino was Mexican born in November 1920. Arriving in Hollywood in the 1950’s he became one of only a select few Hispanic actors gainfully employed. Starting out Ricardo was constantly pestered to change his name to Ricky Martin, which he repeatedly but respectfully declined.
Ricardo with Cyd Charisse
Early in his career Montalban was often cast as an Asian in films. Notably his role opposite Marlon Brando in Sayonara raised his profile. Splitting his time between Television, Cinema and Theatre meant that he was seldom out of work and constantly honing his craft.
Equally passionate about his famously healthy physic, Ricardo worked out religiously ensuring that in his later years he remained a daunting figure of masculinity. He was proud of his bulging Pectoral muscles and natural sporting abilities.
Famously in an interview Ricardo once reflected on the 5 stages of his career, they were:
1. Who is Ricardo Montalbán?
2. Get me Ricardo Montalbán.
3. Get me a Ricardo Montalbán type.
4. Get me a young Ricardo Montalbán.
5. Who is Ricardo Montalbán?
2. Get me Ricardo Montalbán.
3. Get me a Ricardo Montalbán type.
4. Get me a young Ricardo Montalbán.
5. Who is Ricardo Montalbán?
Married to the same woman, actress Georgina Young from 1944 until her death in November 2007. Ricardo Montalban was loved by those who knew him for his energy, generosity and loyalty.
R.I.P Ricardo Montalban (1920-2009)
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