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Irene Ryan

Irene Ryan

Birthday: 1902-10-17 | Place of Birth: San Francisco, California, USA

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.

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Known For

Acting

Year
Title

Role

1962
The Beverly Hillbillies

as    Granny

1960
Desire in the Dust

as    Nora Finney

1952
Blackbeard, the Pirate

as    Alvina, a lady in waiting

1951
Half Angel

as    Nurse Kay

1948
My Dear Secretary

as    Mary

1947
The Woman on the Beach

as    Mrs. Mary Wernecke

1946
The Diary of a Chambermaid

as    Louise

1944
Hot Rhythm

as    Polly Kane (as Irene)

1943
Melody Parade

as    Gloria Brewster

1943
The Sultan's Daughter

as    Irene

1943
O, My Darling Clementine

as    Irene (Princess Sheba)

1943
Sarong Girl

as    Irene Raynor