Rue McClanahan

“People always ask me if I’m like Blanche. And I say, ‘Well, Blanche was an oversexed, self-involved, man-crazy, vain Southern Belle from Atlanta — and I’m not from Atlanta!’” – Rue McClanahan

One of my favorite sitcoms of all time is The Golden Girls.  The casting is sheer perfection and the chemistry between the actresses was the stuff most television producers only dream of.  Like Roseanne, Good Times, I Love Lucy, Beverly Hillbillies, Sanford and Son, and Andy Griffith – this is a sitcom that where you just can’t find a down side.

Rue McClanahan was flawless in her role as Blanche Devereaux.  I swear, I’m in a trance any time the woman comes on the screen.  Her mannerisms, her voice, the way she loses herself in her character – sheer brilliance.   As I watched an episode this morning with my cat, Alexa, it occurred to me that Rue McClanahan doesn’t get nearly enough credit or attention.

Which is exactly why I’m HERE right this minute paying tribute to this hilarious actress!

Rue McClanahan Trivia:

• Rue was born in 1934 in Healdton, Oklahoma.
• She was a New York stage actress in the 1950’s. She was discovered on stage by Norman Lear and cast in roles on “All in the Family” (1971) and later “Maude” (1972).
• Stands 5′3.”
• When Rue was cast as Blanche on The Golden Girls, she was reunited with Bea Arthur (whom she’d worked with on Maude) and Betty White (whom she’d worked with on Mama’s Family).
• Estelle Getty, Betty White, Rue McClanahan, and Bea Arthur all won emmy’s for their roles on The Golden Girls
• After Bea Arthur left the show after eight seasons, McClanahan, White and Getty returned for a brief spin-off in “The Golden Palace” (1992).
• Rue is currently married to her sixth husband.
• In 1997, Rue McClanahan was diagnosed with cancer. She had a lumpectomy and underwent five months of chemotherapy.
• Is a vegan and dedicated animal rights activist.
• An Honorary Director for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.