Zelda Rubinstein, American actress (b. 1933)

Zelda May Rubinstein: An Iconic Actress and Dedicated Human Rights Advocate

Zelda May Rubinstein (May 28, 1933 – January 27, 2010) was a memorable American actress and a passionate human rights activist, widely recognized for her distinctive presence and unique voice across various media. Her career transcended conventional acting, establishing her as both a beloved performer and a courageous humanitarian.

Iconic Roles: From Spectral Medium to Quirky Medical Examiner

Rubinstein’s most enduring and culturally significant role was undoubtedly as the eccentric, yet immensely powerful, medium Tangina Barrons in the highly influential Poltergeist film series. Her portrayal in Steven Spielberg’s 1982 supernatural horror classic Poltergeist, and its sequels, cemented her status as an iconic figure in the horror genre. She brought a unique blend of gravitas, warmth, and an unexpected touch of humor to the character, making Tangina Barrons an unforgettable presence crucial to combating the malevolent forces haunting the Freeling family.

Beyond the silver screen, Zelda Rubinstein also showcased her versatility in television. She was a regular on David E. Kelley's critically acclaimed and Emmy Award-winning legal drama, Picket Fences. For two seasons (1992-1994), she charmingly portrayed Ginny, a quirky yet insightful medical examiner, contributing significantly to the show's distinctive blend of drama and dark humor. Furthermore, she made a notable guest appearance in the spin-off series, Poltergeist: The Legacy (1996), ironically playing another seer character named Christina, further solidifying her association with supernatural themes.

Voice Acting: The "Taste the Rainbow" Legacy

Rubinstein's distinctive, somewhat raspy yet inherently warm voice extended her reach into the realm of advertising, where she found widespread recognition. She was the iconic voice behind the long-running and instantly recognizable "Taste the Rainbow" ad campaign for Skittles candies. Her unique vocal cadence became synonymous with the whimsical and memorable jingle, contributing to one of the most successful and enduring advertising campaigns in confectionery history.

Beyond the Screen: A Tireless Human Rights Advocate

Zelda Rubinstein's influence and legacy extended far beyond her entertainment career into the realm of social activism. She was a courageous and outspoken advocate for human rights, dedicating significant portions of her life to challenging societal norms and promoting equality.

• Advocacy for Little People: As a little person herself, Rubinstein became a powerful and prominent voice for dwarfism awareness and representation. She actively worked to dismantle harmful stereotypes, advocating for dignified and equitable portrayal of little people in media and throughout society. Her efforts helped pave the way for greater understanding and inclusion.
• Early HIV/AIDS Activism: Crucially, Rubinstein was an early and fearless participant in the fight against the HIV/AIDS epidemic. During the critical early years of the crisis, when fear, misinformation, and severe stigma were rampant, she bravely lent her public support to awareness campaigns, public service announcements (PSAs), and fundraising efforts. Her willingness to speak out and act during a time when many public figures shied away demonstrated extraordinary compassion and courage, making a vital impact in raising awareness and fostering understanding for those affected by the disease.

Zelda May Rubinstein’s multifaceted career and unwavering commitment to social justice illustrate her profound impact, solidifying her legacy as both a cherished performer and a courageous humanitarian whose work continues to resonate.

Frequently Asked Questions about Zelda Rubinstein

What was Zelda Rubinstein most famous for?

Zelda Rubinstein is most famous for her iconic role as the eccentric medium Tangina Barrons in the supernatural horror film series, Poltergeist. She also gained recognition for her role as Ginny in the TV series Picket Fences and as the voice for Skittles candies.

Was Zelda Rubinstein involved in activism?

Yes, Zelda Rubinstein was a dedicated human rights activist. She was a prominent advocate for little people and was an early and courageous participant in the fight against HIV/AIDS, particularly during the height of the stigma surrounding the epidemic.

What made Zelda Rubinstein's voice distinctive?

Zelda Rubinstein had a uniquely raspy yet warm and memorable voice that made her instantly recognizable. This distinctive vocal quality was famously utilized in her role as the voice of Skittles candies in their "Taste the Rainbow" advertising campaign.