Who Was The Mexican Actress Who Changed Her Name? Unmasking A Hollywood Icon

Rita Hayworth, one of Hollywood’s most iconic stars, was born Rita Cansino. She adopted her mother’s maiden name, Hayworth, on the advice of her agent, Harry Cohn. Cohn believed that Hayworth sounded more American, and would help her career.

Rita Hayworth’s father was a dancer and her mother was a former Ziegfeld Follies dancer. Hayworth’s family was of Spanish and Irish descent, but Hayworth’s father was adamant about his daughter’s Spanish heritage. Cohn, however, felt that Hayworth’s Spanish name would hinder her success in Hollywood, a sentiment that was sadly common in the film industry at the time.

Hayworth’s name change was a turning point in her career. She went on to become one of the biggest stars in Hollywood, starring in films like “Gilda”, “The Lady from Shanghai”, and “Cover Girl”.

Changing her name to Hayworth also allowed her to embrace a more American image. She became known for her fiery red hair, glamorous style, and her portrayal of strong, independent women. Hayworth’s talent and beauty made her a global icon, and her name change was a key factor in her success.

Despite her fame, Hayworth always felt a sense of connection to her Spanish heritage. She spoke Spanish fluently and visited Spain on several occasions. She was proud of her roots, but she also understood that her name change was necessary for her career in Hollywood.