Irene Ryan
Known For
Acting
Born
1902-10-17 in El Paso, Texas, USA
Died
1973-04-26
Biography
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.
Most Known For
The Merv Griffin Show
as Self
Love, American Style
The Beverly Hillbillies
as Granny
Petticoat Junction
as Granny
My Three Sons
Matinee Theater
The Bob Hope Show
as Self
Alcoa Theatre
as Martha Henderson
The Real McCoys
Mister Ed
The Danny Kaye Show
as Self
The Dean Martin Show
Spring Reunion
as Miss Stapleton
The Hollywood Palace
as Self - Panelist
The Whistler
Half Angel
as Nurse Kay
Bringing Up Buddy
Sarong Girl
as Irene Raynor
Mighty Joe Young
as Southern Belle at the Bar (uncredited)
The Don Knotts Show
as Self