Rue McClanahan was a talented actress who made a name for herself in Hollywood. She had a long and successful career that spanned over five decades. In this article, we will take a look at her life, career, and net worth.
Early Life
Rue McClanahan was born Eddi-Rue McClanahan on February 21, 1934, in Healdton, Oklahoma. She was the daughter of William Edwin McClanahan and Dreda Rheua-Nell McClanahan. Rue was the youngest of three children. Her father was a building contractor, and her mother was a nurse.
Education
Rue McClanahan attended Ardmore High School, where she was active in drama and speech. After high school, she attended the University of Tulsa, where she studied German and Theater Arts. She graduated from the university in 1956 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Career Beginnings
After graduating from the University of Tulsa, Rue McClanahan moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting. She started off as a stage actress, appearing in several Broadway productions, including “The Women” and “Take Her, She’s Mine.”
Television Career
Rue McClanahan’s first television appearance was on “The Jack Paar Show” in 1957. She then went on to appear in several television shows, including “The Love Boat,” “Maude,” and “All in the Family.” However, she is best known for her role as Blanche Devereaux on “The Golden Girls,” which aired from 1985 to 1992.
Film Career
Rue McClanahan appeared in several films throughout her career. Some of her notable film roles include “They Might Be Giants,” “The Rotten Apple,” and “The Fighting Temptations.”
Personal Life
Rue McClanahan was married six times. Her first marriage was to Tom Bish, which lasted from 1958 to 1959. She was then married to actor Norman Hartweg from 1959 to 1961. Her third marriage was to Peter D’Maio, which lasted from 1964 to 1971. From 1976 to 1979, she was married to Gus Fisher. Her fifth marriage was to Tom Keel from 1984 to 1985. Her last marriage was to Morrow Wilson from 1997 until his death in 2003.
Net Worth
At the time of her death in 2010, Rue McClanahan was estimated to have a net worth of around $5 million.
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Awards and Recognition
Rue McClanahan received several awards and nominations throughout her career. She won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as Blanche Devereaux on “The Golden Girls” in 1987.
In 1990, her role on “The Golden Girls” earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Miniseries, or Motion Picture Made for Television at the Golden Globe Awards.
Philanthropy
Throughout her life, Rue McClanahan actively participated in several charitable organizations. She was a supporter of animal rights and worked with organizations such as PETA and the Humane Society of the United States. She was also a supporter of AIDS charities and worked with organizations such as AIDS Project Los Angeles.
Legacy
Rue McClanahan left behind a lasting legacy in Hollywood. She was a talented actress who made audiences laugh and cry with her performances. Her portrayal of Blanche Devereaux on “The Golden Girls” remains one of her most iconic roles, and the show continues to have a dedicated fan base today. Her contributions to the entertainment industry will not be forgotten.
Death
Rue McClanahan passed away on June 3, 2010, at the age of 76. From 1976 to 1979, she was married to Gus Fisher. Fans around the world mourned her death.
FAQs:
Q: What was her most famous role?
A: She is best known for her portrayal of Blanche Devereaux on “The Golden Girls.”
Q: How many times was she married?
A: She was married six times.
Q: What was her net worth at the time of her death?
A: Her net worth was estimated to be around $5 million at the time of her death.
Q: What charitable organizations was she involved with?
A: She was a supporter of animal rights and worked with organizations such as PETA and the Humane Society of the United States. She was also a supporter of AIDS charities and worked with organizations such as AIDS Project Los Angeles.
Q: When did she pass away?
A: She passed away on June 3, 2010, at the age of 76.
Conclusion:
Rue McClanahan was a talented actress who had a long and successful career. She made a name for herself on both stage and screen, and her portrayal of Blanche Devereaux on “The Golden Girls” remains one of her most memorable roles.
Her philanthropic work and dedication to animal rights also made her a beloved figure. The entertainment industry will remember Rue McClanahan as a talented and compassionate woman who made a lasting impact.
