Carol Lawrence

Carol Lawrence, born Carolina Maria Laraia on September 5, 1932, is an American actress known for her work in musical theatre and television. She gained recognition for originating the role of Maria in the Broadway musical West Side Story in 1957, earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. In addition to her theatrical success, Lawrence appeared in various television dramas, including Rawhide, The Six Million Dollar Man, and Murder She Wrote. She also showcased her talents at The Muny in St. Louis, starring in productions like Funny Girl. Lawrence was married to fellow performer Robert Goulet. Born to Italian parents in Melrose Park, Illinois, she attended Proviso Township High School and spent a year at Northwestern University before embarking on her career.