Maureen Hingert, ‘The King and I’ Actress, Dies of Liver Failure at 88
Maureen Hingert, the former Miss Ceylon and actress known for her role in The King and I, has died at the age of 88. She passed away on July 3 in Pasadena, California, due to liver failure. Her family shared that she spent her final days surrounded by loved ones, reflecting on a life filled with beauty, talent, and grace.
Hingert rose to international fame in 1955 when she won the title of Miss Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) and went on to place as second runner-up in the Miss Universe pageant. Her striking beauty and elegance captivated audiences worldwide and opened doors for her in Hollywood. She became one of the few women from South Asia to gain recognition in American films during the Golden Age of cinema.
In The King and I (1956), Hingert played one of the King’s royal wives. Though a supporting role, her performance contributed to the film’s cultural richness and earned her attention as an emerging actress. She continued to appear in several films throughout the late 1950s, often cast in exotic or regal roles that highlighted her unique presence on screen.
Born on January 9, 1936, in Colombo, Ceylon, Hingert was the daughter of Lionel Hingert, a respected businessman. She was educated in Colombo and developed an early interest in dance and performance. Her success in beauty pageants gave her a platform to pursue acting in the United States, where she signed with 20th Century Fox and began her Hollywood career.
In addition to her film work, Hingert was admired for her dedication to cultural representation and her ability to navigate the challenges of being a South Asian actress in mid-century Hollywood. She broke barriers and became an inspiration for aspiring performers from similar backgrounds.
Later in life, Hingert stepped away from acting to focus on her family and personal pursuits. Friends and family remember her as a graceful and kind woman who carried her fame with humility. She remained proud of her Sri Lankan heritage and often spoke about her experiences in Hollywood’s golden era.
Following her death, tributes have poured in from Sri Lanka and Hollywood. Many praised Hingert’s beauty, talent, and pioneering role as one of the first Sri Lankan women to achieve international fame.
Maureen Hingert is survived by her children and grandchildren. Her family expressed gratitude for the love and support shown by fans and admirers worldwide.
Though she is gone, Hingert’s legacy as both a beauty queen and a Golden Age actress continues to inspire. Her contributions to cinema and cultural history remain a testament to her remarkable life.
