**Rita Moreno Reflects on Michael Jackson’s Admiration and a Lifetime of Achievement at Día de Muertos Gala**
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At the recent Día de Muertos Gala held in Los Angeles, iconic actress Rita Moreno received the prestigious Life and Legacy Award, honouring her remarkable career spanning over six decades. The 94-year-old performer is not only celebrated for her talent but also for her enduring influence on the arts, and during the event, she took a moment to reminisce about one of her most notable fans: the late Michael Jackson.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE following the gala on October 27, Moreno recalled a memorable encounter with the King of Pop. She revealed that Jackson had expressed his admiration for her work, particularly her dancing in the acclaimed 1961 film “West Side Story.” Moreno, who starred as Anita in the movie, noted that Jackson had confessed to borrowing some of her dance moves for his own performances.
Moreno shared Jackson’s words from their meeting, speaking in a soft voice reminiscent of the singer himself. “He told me that he and his dancers loved all your steps and we used some of them in some of the numbers that I do because I admire you so much. I admire the choreographer,” Moreno recounted. The actress could not hide her delight, stating, “I was flattered to pieces. I said, ‘Really?’ He said, ‘Oh yes.’”
It is well documented that Jackson’s short films for hits like “Bad” and “Beat It” incorporated dramatic dance sequences and confrontational themes reminiscent of the rivalries in “West Side Story.” While Moreno could not pinpoint the specific moves Jackson may have taken from her, it was clear that his admiration for her artistry had left a lasting impression on the actress.
Moreno’s career began at a remarkably young age; she was just nine years old when she took to the stage. Since then, she has built an illustrious career that includes prominent roles in musicals such as “Singin’ in the Rain” and “The King and I.” Over the years, Moreno has achieved the rare distinction of EGOT status, having won an Emmy Award, Grammy Award, Academy Award, and Tony Award, along with several other honours including a Golden Globe and a Peabody Award.
Reflecting on her achievements, Moreno mentioned that her various awards have a special place in her home. “They’re at home,” she explained, adding that she has a dedicated room to showcase her accolades. This modest pride in her accomplishments speaks volumes about her commitment to her craft and her continuous pursuit of excellence.
Beyond her work in entertainment, Moreno has also made significant contributions to philanthropic causes. Her efforts in supporting children and underserved communities were recognised at the Día de Muertos Gala, emphasising her dedication not only to the arts but also to social issues that affect countless lives.
In her acceptance speech, Moreno expressed her gratitude for being honoured at such a meaningful event aimed at celebrating Latino culture. “I am thrilled to have been a part of this this evening. I’m really delighted about it,” she remarked, showcasing her joy in connecting with the community and honouring her roots.
The Día de Muertos Gala not only highlighted Moreno’s achievements but also served as a reminder of the important contributions of the Latino community, making it a fitting tribute for a woman who has paved the way for many in the entertainment industry.
As Rita Moreno continues to inspire generations with her talent and activism, her encounters with icons like Michael Jackson remind us of the interconnectedness of art and how one performer’s influence can reverberate through time, shaping the work of others in unexpected ways.