Saturday, April 25, 2009

Farewell to Bea Arthur

Bea Arthur, best known for her role as the ever sassy and opinionated Maude and equally sassy Dorothy on the "Golden Girls" died today from cancer. She was 86.

I'm so sad to hear this news. I remember vividly watching every episode of "Maude" as well as the "Golden Girls." I always enjoyed the sharp wit and sarcasm of her character roles.

After making appearances on the iconic "All in the Family," Maude was spun off into it's own successful series in 1972. The show co-starred Bill Macy (Walter Findley), Adrienne Barbeau (Carol Traynor), Conrad Bain (Dr. Arthur Harmon), and Rue McClanahan (Vivian Cavender Harmon).

Bea Arthur starred along side Rue McClanahan again for the highly successful "Golden Girls," which debut on NBC in 1985. Betty White (Rose Nylund), McClanahan (Blanche Devereaux), and the unforgettable Estelle Getty (Sophia Petrillo) co-starred on the show.

Both of the series tackled what many thought were 'risky' subjects of the day: abortion, single motherhood, homosexuality, women's rights, rape, and racism in the country.

Both series can often be found in syndication on retro-television cable networks.

4 comments:

ANDREW RITCHIE said...

She was always my favourite Golden Girl. I already miss her!

John R. said...

Thank you, Bea Arthur, for being a friend...

Elaine said...

Yes, that was a great show!

josh said...

"God will get you for that, Walter!"

And now she can see to it personally.

RIP Bea.