Detailing their nearly eight-year relationship, Moreno expressed mixed feelings about Brando, acknowledging his extraordinary qualities while also labeling him as a “bad guy,” especially in his treatment of women.
Reflecting on her younger self, Moreno admitted to feeling like a pushover in the past.
Back in 1954, at the age of 22, the “West Side Story” star found herself in an on-and-off romantic entanglement with Brando.
In her memoir titled “Rita Moreno: A Memoir,” she recounted a harrowing experience where Brando compelled her to undergo an abortion after she became pregnant with his child.
The emotional toll of this incident, coupled with Brando’s continuous unfaithfulness, led Moreno to a dark moment where she attempted suicide.
Recalling the tumultuous dynamics of their relationship, Moreno shared insights into Brando’s complex character and how she could decipher his intentions – a skill that both attracted and subjected her to mistreatment.
She candidly revealed her suicide attempt with pills at Brando’s residence, driven by a deep sense of despair.
Although their romance ended in 1962, fate brought them back together on the set of “The Night of the Following Day.”
Despite Brando’s desire to reignite their love, Moreno declined, having moved on with her life, being married to Leonard Gordon, and raising a daughter, Fernanda Luisa Gordon.
Reflecting on the aftermath of their breakup, Moreno pondered on the transformation she witnessed in Brando, believing that he lost a significant part of himself, contrasting the good-natured individual she once adored.
She acknowledged the intricate nature of their connection, marked by complexities and unresolved emotions.
Delving deeper into her perceptions of relationships, Moreno expressed a primitive belief in associating humor and wit with a man’s ability to protect and care for her, showcasing a vulnerable aspect of her personality that sought solace in humor and charm.
For more captivating stories and insightful commentary, don’t miss out on Salon’s daily newsletter, Crash Course, offering a comprehensive roundup of the day’s news and opinions.
