Before there was Beyonce, Gaga, or Madonna there was Charo.
Now the Latina phenom with energy to burn is back in the public eye to showcase her ageless enthusiasm, and to reposition herself as the original single-named diva.
DWTS Pro: Keo Motsepe
Most Known For: Cuchi-Cuchi
Age: ??
1. She's an Icon
Being a guest on the Tonight Show is one thing, but when it's the Ed Sullivan Show - that's on another level. Charo's celebrity status goes back to shows like Laugh In and who could forget those episodes of the Love Boat, but the fact that she was headlining in Las Vegas during the time when that included other legends like Elvis and Liberace.
2. She's an Inspiration
Charo's energy and enthusiasm is like the stuff energy drinks are made of. She's got spunk, she's all diva, and while she's not as young as she used to be, she could give anyone a run for their money in the performance department.
3. She is Talented
Charo is a multi-talented star. As a musician, singer, actress, and comedian (sometimes unintentionally), she has plenty to offer on Dancing with the Stars Season 24.
1. Her Age Was Settled in Court
Although her birth date is currently listed as 1951, it has been everything from 1941 to 1947, 49, and 51. Eventually, it was settled in US court in 1977.
2. She is an Incredible Guitarist
While her curves may have received plenty of attention, it's her work with the guitar that has made her the lasting star that she is today. She was named Best Flamenco Guitarist in Guitar Player Magazine on two separate occasions.
3. She Was Married to a Legend
Charo was discovered by Latin bandleader and 'Rumba King,' Xavier Cugat, and soon joined his orchestra as a singer and dancer. Despite a more than 40-year age difference, Charo and Cugat wed in 1966.[Biography.com]
4. Her Real Name Is
Maria del Rosario Mercedes Pilar Martinez Molina Baeza, but you can call her Charo.
5. This is Her Second Time on DWTS
In Season 10, when Pamela Anderson and pro Damian Whitewood needed to add some fire and spice to their Paso Doble routine, they turned to, none other than, Charo. She arrived and, needless to say, made quite an impression.
Final Thought
While there are some minor details that remain a mystery about Charo (her age), one thing is certain about the single named star - her talent.
There are one dimensional beauties that come and go, but Charo's quick wit, hard work, and talent is what has kept her career a constant for over 50 years.
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