Los Angeles

Actresses and Gymnast Named Grand Marshals of 2020 Rose Parade

The trio will preside over the 131st Rose Parade on Jan. 1. The parade is themed "The Power of Hope.''

The Tournament of Roses Tuesday announced not one, not two, but three grand marshals for the 2020 Rose Parade — Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez, actress Gina Torres and Oscar-, Emmy-, Tony- and Grammy-winning actress/singer/dancer Rita Moreno.

The trio will preside over the 131st Rose Parade on Jan. 1. The parade is themed "The Power of Hope.''

"The Rose Parade is something I've been seeing all my life on television,'' Moreno said during a ceremony at Tournament House in Pasadena. "... It's a dream come true, and I can only tell you I am absolutely thrilled.''

Moreno, 87, is one of a select group of performers to achieve what is known as an EGOT, winning Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony Awards. She is perhaps best known for her Oscar-winning role in "West Side Story.''

Torres, known for her work in shows such as "Suits,'' "The Shield'' and "Westworld,'' said she was proud to be chosen as a part of the Rose Parade family.

"As I've learned more and more and more about the Rose Parade, and the 936 volunteers that commit themselves every year for years and decades; it's a team,'' she said. "I am so honored to be part of this team.''

Hernandez, 19, won an Olympic gold medal as part of the U.S. women's gymnastics team in 2016. She also won a Mirror Ball trophy on "Dancing with the Stars.''

"Being a part of it (the Rose Parade) is a big honor,'' she said.

"Like when I was a little kid, and I would watch the Olympics and hope to be there, I did the same with the Rose Bowl Parade. And now I have that opportunity as well.''

Tournament of Roses President Laura Farber said the three grand marshals are perfect choices to match the parade's theme.

"Rita Morena, Gina Torres and Laurie Hernandez epitomize hope,'' Farber said in a statement. "Through their talent, efforts, persistence and dedication, they have achieved excellence and have given back to the world stories of hope, dreams fulfilled, dignity, respect and inspiration."

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