Let me tell you about Rita Moreno, an absolute treasure of Hollywood. Her incredible career has spanned over six decades, and she's worked with some of the biggest names in the business. You might know her from her iconic role in Singin' in the Rain or her unforgettable performance in West Side Story. But here’s the thing: for all her success on the big screen, nothing brings her more joy than being a mom to her daughter, Fernanda Luisa Gordon, and spending quality time with her grandchildren. That's what truly lights up her life.
Rita’s Journey to Motherhood
Rita found love with her late husband, Leonard Gordon, a cardiologist she first met during her run in the Broadway play The Sign in Sidney Brustein's Window back in 1964. They tied the knot in 1965 and welcomed their daughter, Fernanda, in 1967. Rita’s transition from a rising star to a devoted mother marked a new chapter in her life, one filled with love and family. Leonard and Rita made a beautiful life together, and their bond only grew stronger with the arrival of Fernanda.
A Family Legacy in Hollywood

Now, Fernanda followed in her mom’s footsteps, carving out her own path in Hollywood. She’s not just an actress, though—Fernanda also dabbles in jewelry design and freelance graphic design, showcasing her diverse talents. You might recognize her from her roles in the 1991 film An Inconvenient Woman and The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr. in 1993. It's a family affair of creativity and passion.
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From Mom to Grandma
Fernanda’s life took another exciting turn when she married David Tyler Fisher in 1996. Soon after, Rita became a grandma with the arrival of her first grandchild, Justin Gordon Fisher. Then, three years later, her family grew again with the birth of Cameron David Fisher. Rita and Leonard even moved from L.A. to Berkeley to be closer to their grandsons, showing just how much family means to them.
Rita once shared her heartfelt feelings about her grandchildren in a 2008 interview with Grand Magazine. She spoke about the incredible experience of being present for the birth of her grandchildren, an event that left a lasting impression on her. "Our grandchildren are the light of our lives," she said. "It's one of the best experiences we've ever had, right up there with the birth of our daughter. Being there to witness and support her as she brought her own children into the world was truly unforgettable."
Rita’s Hollywood Legacy Continues
In 2021, Fernanda stood proudly by her mom's side at the 93rd Academy Awards, celebrating a special moment in Rita’s career. It marked exactly 59 years since Rita won her Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in West Side Story. That night, Steven Spielberg's remake of the classic film premiered, with Rita reprising her role as Valentina. Fernanda couldn’t have been prouder to call Rita her mom.
Fernanda opened up about their bond at the star-studded event, telling ABC, "We have so much fun together. She's the coolest mom ever. I’m a lucky girl." It’s clear that the bond between mother and daughter is as strong as ever, built on mutual admiration and love.


