Carole D'Andrea of 'West Side Story' Dies at 87

Carole D'Andrea, renowned for her role as Velma in the original Broadway production of 'West Side Story' and its 1961 film adaptation, has died at 87 due to heart failure. Her daughters announced that she passed away peacefully at her Santa Monica home on March 11, coinciding with her 44th sobriety anniversary. D'Andrea was among the few original cast members of the Broadway show to appear in the film version. She was married to actor Robert Morse from 1961 to 1981, with whom she had three daughters. After leaving acting to focus on her family, she became a respected acting teacher, inspiring many with her encouragement and dedication to the arts. Her daughters and fans have paid tribute to her, celebrating her life as a performer, teacher, and beloved mother.