Barbara Rush, Iconic Hollywood Actor, Dies at Age 97

Early Life and Rise to Fame

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Barbara Rush, a popular leading actor in the 1950s and 1960s, known for her co-starring roles alongside Frank Sinatra, Paul Newman, and other top film performers, has passed away at the age of 97.

A Life Remembered

Rush’s daughter, Claudia Cowan, a Fox News reporter, took to Instagram to share the sad news of her mother’s passing on Easter Sunday. Additional details regarding her death are not yet known.

Acknowledging her mother’s impressive career, Cowan praised Rush as “among the last of “Old Hollywood Royalty” and referred to herself as her mother’s “biggest fan.”

A Multi-Talented Star

Barbara Rush, originally spotted in a play at the Pasadena Playhouse, signed a contract with Paramount Studios in 1950, marking the beginning of her film career. Her debut came later that same year with a small role in “The Goldbergs,” which was based on the popular radio and TV series.

Although she left Paramount shortly after, Rush’s talent propelled her to work with Universal International and later 20th Century Fox, where she continued to flourish as a versatile actor.

Despite Paramount’s inclination towards established talent, Rush’s career thrived as she starred alongside Rock Hudson in “Captain Lightfoot,” Douglas Sirk’s acclaimed remake of “Magnificent Obsession,” and Audie Murphy in “World in My Corner.” She also gained recognition for her role in the 3-D science-fiction classic “It Came From Outer Space,” for which she received a Golden Globe award for most promising newcomer.

A Golden Era

Barbara Rush solidified her place in the annals of Hollywood history with her remarkable performances in several notable films. She starred in the Nicholas Ray classic “Bigger Than Life” and appeared in “The Young Lions” alongside Marlon Brando, Dean Martin, Montgomery Clift, and “The Young Philadelphians” with Paul Newman. Additionally, she worked on two films alongside the legendary Frank Sinatra, “Come Blow Your Horn,” and the Rat Pack spoof “Robin and the Seven Hoods,” which also featured Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr.

Transition to Television

During the 1950s and 60s, Rush started making regular appearances on television shows, establishing herself as a familiar face in the industry. She embraced television as she approached middle age, successfully transitioning her career and appearing in memorable roles in popular series such as “Peyton Place,” “All My Children,” “The New Dick Van Dyke Show,” and “7th Heaven.”

Rush’s dynamic talent and her ability to bring characters to life on screen were highly regarded, earning her the respect and affection of audiences throughout her career.

A Life Well-Lived

Reflecting on her life, Rush expressed gratitude for the opportunity to pursue her passion for acting. In a 1997 interview, she humorously acknowledged her ceaseless dedication, stating, “I’m one of those kinds of people who will perform the minute you open the refrigerator door and the light goes on.”

Rush’s involvement in the theater community was equally impressive. She embarked on successful theatrical tours, showcasing her versatility in productions such as “Same Time, Next Year,” “Father’s Day,” “Steel Magnolias,” and her solo show, “A Woman of Independent Means.”

Remembering Barbara Rush

Barbara Rush’s journey in the entertainment industry is a testament to her talent, resilience, and enduring charm. Born in Denver and spending her formative years in Santa Barbara, California, Rush’s love for acting was ignited early on. She remained passionate about her craft even as she weathered the challenges and transformations of her career.

In her personal life, Rush experienced the highs and lows of love. She was married and divorced three times, her husbands including the late screen star Jeffrey Hunter, Hollywood publicity executive Warren Cowan, and sculptor James Gruzalski.

Today, we celebrate Barbara Rush for her contributions to the world of entertainment. Her immense talent, captivating performances, and magnetic personality will continue to influence and inspire countless aspiring actors for generations to come.

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This obituary was written by our esteemed journalist. The original text was composed by Associated Press journalist Bob Thomas and edited to adhere to the guidelines of our publication for optimal user experience.