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Shirley Booth, born on September 30, 1914, in Springfield, Massachusetts, was an American actress of film, television, and stage who left a significant mark on the entertainment industry. With her remarkable versatility and talent that spanned over five decades, she garnered numerous accolades, including two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress – Comedy or Drama Series. Booth’s multifaceted career can be explored through her early years, acting debut, professional achievements, personal life, and enduring legacy.
Early Years
Born Shirley Casey, she adopted the stage name ‘Shirley Booth’ later in her career. Booth spent her childhood in her native Springfield, where she attended Classical High School. After graduating from high school, she studied nursing for a short while but eventually decided to pursue an acting career.
Acting Debut
Booth’s acting career began in 1936 when she joined the Castle Square Theatre in Boston. Her Broadway debut came in 1941, with ‘Harvey,’ a play about an invisible rabbit companion. Booth’s performance was highly acclaimed, and she was recognized for her ability to portray complex characters.
Professional Achievements
Booth’s success continued into film and television. Her movie debut was in ‘I Remember Mama’ (1948), which also featured her future husband, Everett Sloane. She appeared in films like ‘Pat and Mike’ (1952), ‘The Tender Trap’ (1955), and ‘Come September’ (1961). Her most notable television performances were as ‘Ann Marie’ on the sitcom ‘Here’s Lucy’ (1968-74) and her portrayal of ‘Daisy Moody’ in the CBS drama ‘Hazel’ (1961-65), for which she earned two Emmy Awards. Booth was also a celebrated stage actress, earning critical acclaim for her performances in plays like ‘The Time of the Cuckoo,’ ‘Auntie Mame,’ and ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?’
Personal Life
Booth married four times. Her first marriage, to actor Everett Sloane in 1943, lasted until his death in 1965. She later married producer Stanley Hopsitner (married in 1968 and divorced in 1973), writer-producer Charles Jarrott (married in 1973 and divorced in 1978), and actor George Abbott (married in 1980, until her death).
Enduring Legacy
Shirley Booth passed away on August 16, 1992. Her career continued to influence future generations of actors and entertainers. She paved the way for actresses like Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, and Mary Tyler Moore with her groundbreaking performances in comedy and drama.