Rita Moreno’s Grown-up Grandkid, Who Is a Head Taller than Her, Called ‘Handsome’ – Meet Her Family
Rita Moreno, the celebrated Puerto Rican performer and EGOT winner, is best remembered for her unforgettable performances in “Singin’ in the Rain” (1952) and “West Side Story” (1961).
Off-screen, she embraces her role as a devoted mother and grandmother to two grandsons, one of whom has been described as “handsome.”
Rita found lasting happiness beyond the spotlight when she married a retired cardiologist who later became her manager, Leonard Gordon, in June 1965. He sadly died in 2010 after 45 years of marriage.
Reflecting on their union and the lessons she learned, Rita revealed in a candid interview that she “probably” would’ve left her “very controlling” late husband.
Leonard Gordon and Rita Moreno attend a party on September 13, 1983, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
She acknowledged that tensions in the relationship had grown significantly and that her daughter was the primary reason she stayed. Rita also noted that she wasn’t certain divorce was ever a viable option, as she “had no plans to have a life with anybody else.”
The veteran actress and her spouse welcomed their only child, Fernanda Luisa Gordon, two years after tying the knot in September 1967.
Over the years, Fernanda followed in her mother’s artistic footsteps, becoming a talented singer and dancer who often performed in Rita’s stage productions.
In May 2022, Fernanda honored her mother on Mother’s Day with a heartfelt tribute accompanied by a nostalgic photo of the two together. In her message, she wrote, “You have always been an amazing mom – and have become a true friend. Grateful to share so many beautiful experiences with you, mí compañera.”
Fernanda and David went on to welcome two sons, Justin and Cameron Fisher, whom Rita adores deeply. Rita’s love for her grandchildren is boundless, a fact she shared during an interview at TIME’s Women of the Year Gala.
Rita Moreno and Justin Fisher attend TIME Women of the Year on March 8, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Overflowing with pride, she added, “I’m just I’m so proud of him. I can’t stand myself. This is my boy.” Meanwhile, Justin expressed his admiration for his grandmother, saying, “Whether you’re 24 years old or 91 years young, it’s always a fun time with Rita.”
Justin’s admiration for his grandmother, who became the first Hispanic woman to win an Academy Award, is evident not just in words but also in his actions. In 2023, he accompanied Rita to the premiere of “80 for Brady” in Los Angeles.
Rita Moreno and Justin Fisher attend the Los Angeles premiere screening of “80 For Brady” on January 31, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
On the red carpet, Justin revealed that he played a role in helping his grandmother land her part in the high-octane film “Fast X,” which stemmed from an encounter with Vin Diesel at the “West Side Story” premiere in 2021. He divulged the actor is fond of his famous grandmother.
“[Vin and I] caught up and grabbed drinks after the event, and he’s so fond of my grandma,” he recalled. “I told him, ‘You should work with her. You should have her be your grandma, have her slap you upside the head. Have her have a little tone, because you know her, it’s all tone.'”
She wrote, “Hey @justinfish26! We are thinking of you today on your 23rd birthday and sending hugs and high fives. We love you and are so proud of you. Keep living life to the fullest and enjoying CO.”
Justin’s younger brother, Cameron, has also been celebrated by their family. In July 2021, Fernanda marked his 21st birthday with a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, sharing a collage of his childhood and recent photos alongside the caption, “Happy 21st Birthday @cfishy1!!! We love you.”
Rita Moreno’s family continues to shine in their own unique ways, reflecting the values of love, talent, and resilience she has instilled in them. From her cherished role as a grandmother to her children and grandchildren’s accomplishments, her legacy extends far beyond her iconic career.
