Ivette and Carmen Jimenez

Carmen Jimenez and her sister Ivette were among the first Latinas to appear regularly on American Bandstand.

Ivette and Carmen were both born in Puerto Rico but moved to Philadelphia. They had two other sisters, Maria and Adele and a brother Victor. Carmen and Yvette grew up in the working-class Kensington neighborhood. At age 16, Carmen found her way into the American Bandstand studio, like many teens in Philly. They went to Kensington High School

Their trademarks were blond streak bangs. In later years the sisters opened up a beauty salon together.

Carmen danced on American Bandstand from 1959-1961. Her favorite dance partners were Ed Kelly and Mike Balara. Carmen lived in Phildelphia at the time of her passing in 2015.

Carmen pursued a career in healthcare administration, working for over 30 years in city hospitals and nonprofit organizations. She married, had children, and became active in Latin community advocacy during the 1970s and ’80s.

She also volunteered at her local parish and was involved in cultural outreach programs during the 1980s that aimed to connect youth with their heritage. Her love for dance never faded — she often taught community dance workshops for children in her neighborhood.

Schools in Latin American communities have occasionally featured Carmen in classroom discussions about cultural representation in mid-20th-century media.

Carmen eventually married and raised a family. She continued dancing socially in community events, particularly in the Latino neighborhoods of Philadelphia, where she was always warmly received. To those who recognized her from her Bandstand days, she was always gracious.

Even after the show, Carmen continued to receive letters well into the 1980s. Fans wrote to ask if she remembered them, to thank her for being a role model, or to simply reconnect. She responded to as many as she could.

Carmen Jimenez passed away peacefully in 2015.

1985 Oprah Winfrey Show
L-R: Bobby Baritz, Arlene Sullivan, Carmen Jimenez, Ivette Jimenez and Ed Kelly

Ivette danced on American Bandstand from 1958-1961. Her favorite dance partner was Ed Kelly. She appeared n Oprah Show and at several reunions. She lives in Miami and has been in the real estae business for many years.

L -R: Ed Kelly, Ivette Jimenez, Carmen Jimenez and Norman Kerr

Ivette was also active in local arts programs in Miami, occasionally working with community centers to mentor young girls through arts and dance. Her teaching philosophy was rooted in empathy and cultural awareness, which made her a favorite among students and parents alike.Her partnership with her sister was also unique. They often coordinated outfits, danced together, and were often seen chatting or helping other dancers with hair and makeup. For viewers, they were more than just performers — they were sisters.

Ivette lives in Miami, Florida.

Above current as of 2017