S2 E6: Betty White

No Ordinary Women

This week Rose tells us about the amazing Betty White!! Born as Betty Marion Ludden White on January 17, 1922, in Oak Park, Illinois, Betty White's legacy is etched in Hollywood history. From acting and activism to comedy and producing, she shone brightly for over seven remarkable decades.

Betty's journey began as the only child of Christine Tess and Horace Logan White, an executive in a lighting company.

Relocating to Los Angeles after her birth, Betty's star quality emerged early. In high school, she graced the stage and even wrote and starred in her graduation play. Her entertainment journey truly began after graduating from Beverly Hills High School in 1939.

During World War II, Betty's sense of duty led her to the American Women’s Voluntary Services. Operating a PX truck, she delivered essentials to soldiers stationed in Santa Monica and Hollywood. Amidst this, she experienced a brief marriage and divorce from P-38 pilot Dick Parker.

Her TV journey commenced with "Al Jarvis's Hollywood on Television" in 1949. Betty's boldness was showcased when she invited a black tap dancer onto her show, a moment that stirred controversy. Her resilience and principled stance marked her legacy.

In the 1960s, Betty appeared on shows like “To Tell the Truth” and "The Match Game." Her path crossed with Allen Ludden, eventually leading to love and marriage. Together, they shared a bond rooted in Allen's unwavering enthusiasm and curiosity.

Throughout her career, Betty graced sitcoms, with "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and "The Golden Girls" among her most iconic roles. Her wit and charm endeared her to fans and peers alike. The love she had for animals translated into her advocacy for animal welfare.

Her journey was marked by laughter, challenges, and breaking barriers. She remained true to herself, never succumbing to societal pressures. Betty's humor, grace, and authenticity inspired generations, making her an enduring symbol of positivity.

As we bid farewell to Betty White on December 31, 2021, just shy of her 100th birthday, let's celebrate her legacy of love, laughter, and boundless spirit. She remains forever etched in our hearts and the annals of Hollywood history.

Thank you to our sources!!

https://thescarlet.org/17747/larts/the-life-and-legacy-of-betty-white/

https://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/betty-white-6704.php

https://www.fs.usda.gov/news/releases/forest-service-makes-actress-betty-white-honorary-ranger

https://www.washingtonpost.com/history/2021/12/31/betty-white-arthur-duncan-racism/

https://www.eonline.com/news/1316271/betty-whites-lasting-love-story-with-allen-ludden-why-her-third-husband-was-her-one-and-only

https://ew.com/gallery/betty-white-18-golden-quotes/

https://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/betty-white-almost-turned-down-hot-in-cleveland.html/