From sickly to stunning: The polio survivor who became a Hollywood icon

Cyd Charisse could do it all — sing, act, and dance like a goddess.

And her legs? Absolutely legendary.

She stood as a symbol of grace, elegance, and pure physical artistry during Hollywood’s Golden Age.

A skinny and sickly girl
Women like Cyd Charisse will always be remembered for their gifts to the silver screen. As actors and actresses from that golden era pass away, it’s bittersweet —because that time truly showcased a level of talent we may never see again.The Texas beauty embodied pure class — a true lady, graceful, kind, and effortlessly beautiful.

With her long, sculpted legs, captivating gaze, and effortless command of the dance floor, Cyd Charisse earned her place among Hollywood’s greatest dancers, standing shoulder to shoulder with legends like Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly.

Yet her path to stardom was far from easy, and the story of her life is as compelling as the roles she brought to life on screen.