Carole D’Andrea, who is best remembered for her portrayal of Velma in the original Broadway production of West Side Story, has passed away at the age of 87.
D’Andrea, known for her powerful performance as the rich girl who falls for Riff, was an integral part of the 1957 musical.
She also reprised the role in the beloved 1961 film adaptation, cementing her place in musical history.
Family Announces Her Passing
The heartbreaking news of her death was shared by her family on social media.
Her three daughters, Andre Doven, Robin Morse, and Hilary Morse, took to Instagram and Facebook to inform the public of their mother’s passing.
They revealed that Carole died peacefully at home on Tuesday, March 11, due to heart failure.
In their post, they shared their emotions, stating, “It was a privilege to be by her side as she passed,” and reflecting on the grace and courage she displayed in her final days.
A Special Milestone
The daughters, all actresses themselves, also mentioned a poignant detail about their mother’s passing.
Carole died on the same day as her 44th anniversary of sobriety through Alcoholics Anonymous, a day she had always considered transformative.
“She said it was ‘the day that I changed my life,'” they shared, emphasizing the significance of the moment.
A Life Well-Lived
In their tribute, the daughters expressed how proud they were of their mother’s fulfilling life.
“She led a quality life as a mother, grandmother, performer, and teacher,” they wrote, reminiscing on her dedication to both her family and her career.
The heartfelt message was concluded with the beautiful poem On The Death of the Beloved by John O’Donohue, which captured their deep grief and love for their mother.
A Lasting Legacy
Carole D’Andrea’s impact on the entertainment world is undeniable.
After leaving her acting career to raise her children, her legacy lives on through her daughters.
Robin and Hilary have followed in their mother’s footsteps with careers in acting, while Robin also teaches at the Manhattan School of Music.
Carole shared her children with her late husband, Tony Award-winning actor Robert Morse, whom she was married to from 1961 to 1981.
Her passing marks the end of an era, but her influence on theater and film will continue through the work of her family and the unforgettable role she played in West Side Story.