Cyd Charisse Passed Away at 86: Inside the Life, Final Hours, and Lasting Stardom
By Maya Lin-Takahashi
Q1: What was Cyd Charisse’s official cause of death?
Charisse passed away from complications following an apparent heart attack. She was admitted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles shortly before dying on June 17, 2008, at the age of 86.
Q2: What was Cyd Charisse’s real name?
She was born Tula Ellice Finklea in Amarillo, Texas. Her stage name emerged from her childhood nickname "Sid", given by her brother, and the surname of her first husband, dance teacher Nico Charisse.
Q3: Did MGM actually insure Cyd Charisse’s legs for $5 million?
Studio publicity campaigns in the 1950s widely claimed her famous legs were insured through Lloyd's of London for an unprecedented $5 million. While Charisse admitted the figure was heavily inflated studio hype, the campaign successfully branded her as Hollywood's premier physical artist.
Q4: Who did Charisse prefer dancing with: Fred Astaire or Gene Kelly?
Charisse repeatedly refused to pick a favorite, explaining that they possessed entirely distinct approaches. She described Astaire as an agile, effortless planner who floated across steps, while Kelly danced with earthy, muscular power. Her versatility allowed her to match both men at their absolute peaks.
Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.
