Carmen Margarita Zapata (July 15, 1927 – January 5, 2014) often referred to as "The First Lady of the Hispanic Theater" was an American actress best known for her role in the PBS bilingual children's program Villa Alegre. Zapata was also the co-founder and director of the Bilingual Foundation of the Arts in Los Angeles. Zapata took an active part in the Chicano movement of the 1960s and 1970s. Zapata was born in New York City to Julio Zapata, a Mexican immigrant, and Ramona Roca, an Argentine immigrant.

Carmen Zapata

Acting Born July 15, 1927 – Died January 5, 2014 New York City, New York, USA

Carmen Margarita Zapata (July 15, 1927 – January 5, 2014) often referred to as "The First Lady of the Hispanic Theater" was an American actress best known for her role in the PBS bilingual children's program Villa Alegre. Zapata was also the co-founder and director of the Bilingual Foundation of the Arts in Los Angeles. Zapata took an active part in the Chicano movement of the 1960s and 1970s. Zapata was born in New York City to Julio Zapata, a Mexican immigrant, and Ramona Roca, an Argentine immigrant.

Known For

Married... with Children

Madame Olga

Bonanza

Maria Valdez

Falcon Crest

Judge Patterson

Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman

Dona Verano

Adam-12

Mrs. Encara Flores

Adam-12

Mrs. Cipreano

Adam-12

Maria Lopez

Batman: The Animated Series

Judge Maria Vargas (voice)

Mannix

Chambermaid

Love, American Style

Love, American Style

Pilar

Emergency!