Raquel Welch was an American actress who rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s, becoming an iconic figure in Hollywood. Born Jo Raquel Tejada on September 5, 1940, she transitioned from modeling and television to film, starring in numerous memorable roles that showcased her talent and versatility. Here is a timeline of her significant events and milestones.
Main Milestones
Birth
September 5, 1940
Raquel Welch was born Jo Raquel Tejada in Chicago, Illinois, to Josephine Sarah Hall and Armando Carlos Tejada Urquizo. Her family moved to San Diego, California, when she was two years old.
High School Graduation
1958
Welch graduated with honors from La Jolla High School. She had already begun to pursue a career in performing arts, studying ballet and participating in local beauty contests.
Early Career
1960
Welch started working as a weather presenter at KFMB, a local San Diego television station. She also began modeling and acting in local theater productions.
Film Debut
1964
Welch made her feature film debut in 'A House Is Not a Home' and 'Roustabout,' an Elvis Presley film. She also appeared in small roles on television series such as 'Bewitched' and 'The Virginian'.
Breakthrough Role
1966
Welch starred in 'Fantastic Voyage,' a sci-fi film that became a hit and made her a star. She also appeared in 'One Million Years B.C.,' which cemented her status as an international sex symbol.
Controversial Role
1969
Welch starred in '100 Rifles,' a western film that included a love scene with Jim Brown, breaking Hollywood's taboo against onscreen interracial intimacy.
Transgressive Role
1970
Welch took on the role of the transsexual heroine in 'Myra Breckinridge,' a film based on Gore Vidal's controversial bestseller.
Award-Winning Performance
1973
Welch won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for her role as Constance Bonacieux in 'The Three Musketeers'.
Television Recognition
1987
Welch was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Miniseries or Television Film for her performance in 'Right to Die'.
Final Film
2017
Welch appeared in 'How to Be a Latin Lover,' her final film before her retirement.
Passing
February 15, 2023
Raquel Welch passed away at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's most iconic actresses.
