We recently connected with Dolores Cantu and have shared our conversation below.

Dolores, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?

My journey into the creative world began when I was chosen by Eastern Airlines’ board of directors to represent them as ‘Miss Hospitality’ for the Miss USA Pageant. Imagine a young Hispanic girl from rural Texas, gracing the stage of one of the most glamorous events on the planet with unparalleled confidence and grace. My first role on television was alongside the iconic Bob Barker, in front of millions watching the Miss USA Pageant. At 22 the exposure introduced me to the world, it was a crash course in confidence! The experience along with the guidance from my mentor and Miss USA Judge, Bob Lardine from The New York Daily News, enriched my spirit with grace and poise beyond my years.

My role as Miss Hospitality wasn’t just a title; it was an affirmation. It led to my earning of the SAG (Screen Actors Guild) card. Securing a SAG card is entry into Hollywood’s inner sanctum. It signifies that you’ve arrived, not as a fleeting visitor but as a recognized professional.

My work for Eastern Airlines as Miss Hospitality, not only paid in dollars, but in invaluable experiences and life lessons. It was a vivid demonstration of the mantra I’ve held close all my life: If you have a dream, passion, and a sprinkle of audacity, no stage is too grand, no spotlight too bright!

Dolores, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Hello beautiful people of Voyage LA! It’s DOLORES CANTU and I CANDU !. As a teen, there I was, a popcorn girl at the Strand Theatre in Orange, Texas, sneaking glances at the captivating world on screen. Those glamorous stars, Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren, weren’t just stars to me; they embodied my dreams, they were role models, and larger than life.

Flash forward to 1969, Houston,Texas. Fate had me meet a landlord with a heart of gold. He had news: Eastern Airlines was scouting for spirited girls to light up their aisles as stewardesses. Now, picture this: a young Latina girl in the 1960s, aiming for the skies! A daunting dream, indeed. But landlord saw something in me, a spark in me and said, “Dolores, you’ve got the magic for this!” And in an era where Latinas in the airline business were a rare sight, his belief was nothing short of a blessing. My landlord even drove me to the interview – talk about angels on Earth!

Zoom to 20-year-old me, lighting up the aisles of Eastern Airlines, spreading joy and laughter. But life had even grander opportunities a waiting.The Miss USA and Miss Universe Pageant my life steered me towards the starry lights of New York City.

New York! The city where dreams soar or sink. And soar I did. National commercials, big shoots like Sunny Delight, Dolly Parton/Revlon, GMC Cars… and who could forget, making history with one of the first McDonald’s ads for the Hispanic Market in 1973. Next TV came calling, and the silver screen too, with moments shared and icons like John Travolta in “Saturday Night Fever”.

Then, in 2001, life took another twist. A budding actress sought my guidance, birthing Candu Management. A play on my name, but also my promise to help young talent. “With me by your side, you can do this!” And, trust me, they did. From scripts to screens, I’ve helped their dreams come true.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Let me take you back to the 70s! It was a time when I was finding my way in California having just arrived in Hollywood, and the world of animation was totally new to me. Then came this chance to work with the big names at Hanna-Barbera on “Fred and Barney Meet the Shmoo.”

I was cast as ‘Nita,’ the very first Hispanic female lead characters in a cartoon! And it meant the world to me. Every time I stepped into that recording booth, I felt both excited and a little nervous. I mean, I was in the room with some of the best voice actors out there, people who had been doing this for years.

But even more than the role itself, what stuck with me was the learning experience. Being around such talented folks, seeing how they brought characters to life, and getting tips and tricks from them was just amazing.

Being the voice of Nita wasn’t just a job for me; it felt like being part of something bigger, a sign of how the world of entertainment was starting to change. It was about breaking new ground and making sure everyone’s voice was heard. Looking back, it’s one of those times that showed me the power of sticking to your roots and giving it your best, no matter how big the stage is.

Even 40 years, the Shmoo has proven its lasting charm with a renewed wave of love for the show.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Being creative means always evolving. I encourage emerging talent to train in many area. Nowadays, performers do more than just act. They become self-tapers, directors, and producers. But at its core, it’s about having a dream and the drive to achieve it.

My role isn’t just in front of the camera, through CANDU MANAGEMENT, I’ve had the joy of guiding talent who’ve landed roles in Broadway shows such as”Hairspray,” “In the Heights”, “Mama Mia”, “Mary Poppins”, & “Peter Pan”. TV shows such as “The Winchesters”, “Walking Dead”, “Stranger Things”, “Selena”, “NCIS”, “Modern Family”, “Raven’s Home”, “Grown-ish”, “Sneaker Heads”, “Power Book IV Force”, “Get Shorty” They’ve also showcased their talent and versatility in diverse settings from “MTV tres”, “Fresh Beat Band”, Red Carpet Reporters to voice overs, commercials, and as theme park performers. Their musical abilities have also found spots in the limelight, further testament to the wide range of clients I’ve been honored to represent.

Yet, my own acting flame still burns bright! From print campaigns like Always Depends, to SoCal Edison, I’m proof that age doesn’t dim passion. My passion and resilience can be seen in recent commercials, but also in my extensive acting career. Memorable appearances that are still running in reruns include “Diff’rent Strokes,” “Dallas” as JR’s assistant; “Fantasy Island” with Ricardo Montalban – in the role of “One of The Most Desirable Women in the World” with Barbie Benton, “The Renegades” with Patrick Swayze; “Benson” with Robert Guillaume; “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno”, “Falcon Crest” with Jane Wyman; and “Quincy” with Jack Klugman.

My five-decade journey isn’t just about my achievements. It’s about trailblazing for our culture and being an example for others. From a 14-year-old dreamer to a Hollywood figure, I’ve shown that with dedication, dreams don’t just happen; they inspire others.

In Hollywood, it’s not just about glitz. It’s about grit, passion, perseverance and longevity. My advice to the new generation is to dream and work for it. It’s not just about reaching for the stars but shining as one.

I’ve been in the industry for 53 years, as an actor, a manager and TV florist. My journey has taught me one thing, to never stop dreaming. I started my journey at 14, and today, I stand tall amidst Hollywood’s lights, still hopeful, passionate and driven.

Even today, as the world shifts and entertainment evolves, many of my past roles still resonate. It’s a testament to the timeless nature of art and creativity. They aren’t just memories from a bygone era – they’re reruns still celebrated by audiences today. It’s not just about a moment in the spotlight; it’s about creating something lasting. I’m proud to have had the opportunity to be a trailblazer for Hispanics and women in this arena. To see these accomplishments is a humbling reminder that true artistry makes a difference.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: CanduManagement
• Facebook: Dolores Cantu CanduManagement
• Linkedin: Dolorescantu
• Twitter: CanduManagement
• Youtube: Dolorescantuyoutube

Image Credits
Dolores cantu