SERRANO, IRMA

(1933? or '45? - )

flamboyant actress and singer who in recent years has dedicated herself to politics, serving as a senator from the state of Chiapas (since 1994). Serrano made her screen debut in 1961 but was blacklisted later in the decade, allegedly because of a broken romance with Mexican president Gustavo Díaz Ordaz. She made a comeback in the early 1970s and had a major stage success with the sexy and outrageousNaná(later filmed). Serrano's last film role to date was a supporting role inJuana lacubana, but she continues to be a public figure due to her political position and outspoken nature. Serrano has written three autobiographical books which have all been best-sellers.