Shelley Morrison, best known for her run as no-nonsense maid Rosario Salazar on the NBC sitcom Will & Grace, has passed away at the age of 83. While that is what the actress is most known for, she had a long and prolific career in Hollywood.
Shelley Morrison Passes Away
Numerous sites are reporting that Morrison died Sunday at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. The cause of death is being listed as heart failure.
The actress was born in New York City on October 26, 1936, and appeared in 68 episodes of Will & Grace, as well as in a 2016 online scene in which cast members reunited to encourage people to vote.
The actress did not partake in the revival series currently in its third season on NBC. Rosario’s death was written into the show in a poignant episode.
In addition to Will & Grace, Morrison is known for her role as Sister Sixto on the Sally Field sitcom The Flying Nun. Morrison has over 60 TV and film credits to her name. In 1982, she appeared on General Hospital as Mrs. Ramirez.
“Shelley’s greatest pride as an actress was in playing the indomitable Rosario, in a comedy series that furthered the cause of social equity and fairness for LGBTQ people,” said Morrison’s publicist in a statement. “She also took pride in portraying a strong, loving yet feisty Latina character. She believed that the best way to change hearts and minds was through comedy.”
The Cast Remembers
Will & Grace cast members took to social media to share their memories and love for Morrison and her husband Walter Dominguez. In addition to Dominguez, Morrison is survived by six children and grandchildren.
“She was absolutely hilarious and had the biggest heart,” wrote Sean Hayes, whose Will & Grace character, Jack wed Rosario in one of the show’s earlier storylines. “She was a part of our Will and Grace family and will be greatly missed.”
“Shelley…was such an integral and important part of my experience at Will & Grace, and became a friend in the intervening years,” posted Megan Mullally, whose character, Karen, was Rosario’s boss.
The two characters had intense arguments that ended abruptly, followed by each professing their deep affection for one another. “[S]he was loving, strong, supportive, and kind…i will miss you, Shelley. thank you for the years of partnership and for your friendship and support. te amo, mami.”
“Shelley was a beautiful soul and wonderful actor,” Eric McCormack (Will) wrote. “Her work as Rosario, season after season, was as nuanced and real as it was hysterical. She will be missed by everyone at #WillandGrace.”
“She was a kind soul with a huge heart and always had a smile on her face,” posted Debra Messing (Grace). To read the full tributes to Morrison, read the posts below. Entertainment Hub sends its deep condolences to Morrison’s family, loved ones, friends, and colleagues at Will & Grace at this difficult time.
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