Turner Classic Movies pays tribute to Cyd Charisse

Cyd Charisse's passing has inspired Turner Classic Movies to run some of her most treasured films.

Ms. Charisse was a classically trained ballet artist who wound up an MGM contract player after World War II. Her long legs, athletic frame and beauty propelled her to lead roles paired with the top echelon of actors of that time, such as Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire.Turner Classic Movies (TCM) will devote Friday, June 27, primetime lineup to a three-film tribute to the legendary Cyd Charisse.

The tribute includes "Singin’ in the Rain" (1952), in which she joins Gene Kelly for the famed “Broadway Melody Ballet” sequence; "The Band Wagon" (1953), Vincente Minnelli’s colorful backstage musical that pairs Charisse with Fred Astaire; and "Silk Stockings" (1957), a musical remake of Ninotchka that features another sterling Charisse-Astaire collaboration. “Cyd Charisse was one of the few who managed to have it all: a great career, a place in movie history, respect from her peers and a husband who adored her,” said TCM host Robert Osborne.

Cyd with Gene Kelly

“My last time seeing her just a few months ago in New York said it all, with photographers snapping pictures of the movie star while she smiled brightly on the arm of her husband of 60 years, Tony Martin.”The following is the complete schedule for TCM’s June 27 memorial tribute to Cyd Charisse:8 p.m. Singin’ in the Rain (1952) – starring Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Connor.10 p.m. The Band Wagon (1953) – starring Fred Astaire, Oscar Levant and Jack Buchanan.Midnight Silk Stockings (1957) – starring Fred Astaire, Janis Paige and Peter Lorre.Turner Classic Movies offers critically acclaimed original documentaries and specials, along with the classic movies it celebrates.