Irene Ryan
Before becoming known to millions as Granny on The Beverly Hillbillies (1962), Irene Ryan was already an established vaudeville, radio and movie actress, though not as famous prior to her television stint. She accompanied Bob Hope on his famous military tours and she was known as "the gal who makes Bob Hope laugh." After being cast as Granny, she became famous overnight. When the Hillbillies ended, she co-starred in the Broadway musical 'Pippin' with Ben Vereen. Unfortunately, despite wonderful reviews from critics, Ryan took ill, was discovered to have an inoperable brain tumor and died soon after at the age of 70.
Acting
TV
The Beverly Hillbillies
as Granny
1962
Movie
Mighty Joe Young
as Southern Belle at the Bar (uncredited)
1949
Movie
The Woman on the Beach
as Mrs. Mary Wernecke
1947
TV
Mister Ed
1961
Movie
Blackbeard, the Pirate
as Alvina, a lady in waiting
1952
Movie
Arch of Triumph
as Irate Wife (uncredited)
1948
TV
Petticoat Junction
as Granny
1963
Movie
The Diary of a Chambermaid
as Louise
1946
TV
My Three Sons
1960
Movie
My Dear Secretary
as Mary
1948
TV
Love, American Style
1969
TV
The Dean Martin Show
1965
TV
The Real McCoys
1957
TV
The Merv Griffin Show
as Self
1962
Movie
Meet Me After the Show
as Tillie
1951
TV
Matinee Theater
1955
TV
Alcoa Theatre
as Martha Henderson
1957
Movie
Half Angel
as Nurse Kay
1951
Movie
Heading for Heaven
as Molly
1947
Movie
Reveille with Beverly
as Elsie (uncredited)
1943
TV
General Electric Theater
as Mrs. Bryant
1953
Movie
San Diego I Love You
as Sheila Jones
1944
Movie
Spring Reunion
as Miss Stapleton
1957
Movie
Desire in the Dust
as Nora Finney
1960