Amanda Blake was an American actress who is best known for her iconic role as Miss Kitty in the long-running television series Gunsmoke, as well as appearances in films such as A Star Is Born and Lili. She had a successful career in both film and television, captivating audiences with her performances.
Personal and Family Life
Amanda Blake was born on February 20, 1929, in Buffalo, New York, to parents Jesse and Louise Neill. She moved with her family to Claremont, California, during her high school years, where she graduated from Claremont High School. Although she went to Pomona College, she spent more time acting in local theater productions than on her studies. Throughout her career, Amanda was married four times but did not have any children.
Career
Amanda’s acting career began in her teens when she starred in MGM’s film Stars in My Crown in 1950. Her first notable television role came in Double Exposure in 1952. However, it was her role as Miss Kitty Russell in Gunsmoke, which premiered in 1955, that made her famous. Amanda enjoyed a successful career and was recognized for her talent in both film and television.
Death and Legacy
Amanda Blake passed away on August 16, 1989, in Sacramento, California, due to complications related to AIDS. Her death highlighted the issue of AIDS in Hollywood during that time. Despite her passing, Amanda left behind a lasting legacy as one of the memorable figures in American television history, with fans continuing to celebrate her contributions.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| A Star Is Born | 1954-10-01 | Susan Ettinger |
| Lili | 1953-03-10 | Peach Lips |
| Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge | 1987-09-27 | Kitty |
| Sabre Jet | 1953-09-04 | Helen Daniel |
| Miss Robin Crusoe | 1953-11-01 | Miss Robin Crusoe |
| About Mrs. Leslie | 1954-08-03 | Gilly |
| The Adventures of Hajji Baba | 1954-10-01 | Banah |
| Stars in My Crown | 1950-05-11 | Faith Radmore Samuels |
| The Glass Slipper | 1955-03-24 | Birdena |
| High Society | 1955-04-17 | Clarissa Jones |
| Cattle Town | 1952-09-06 | Marian Hastings |
| Betrayal | 1974-12-03 | Helen Mercer |
| Scarlet Angel | 1952-06-20 | Susan Bradley |
| Smuggler’s Gold | 1951-05-05 | Susan Hodges |
| B.O.R.N. | 1989-10-26 | Rosie |
| Counterspy Meets Scotland Yard | 1950-11-21 | Karen Michelle |
| Duchess of Idaho | 1950-07-14 | Linda Kinston |
| A Star Is Born World Premiere | 1954-09-28 | Self |
| The Boost | 1988-12-23 | Barbara |
| Clown Alley | 1966-11-09 | Pickpocket Clown |
| The Family Secret | 1951-10-21 | N/A |
| Gunsmoke | 1955-09-10 | Kitty |
| Studio One | 1948-11-07 | Joan Roberts |
| General Electric Theater | 1953-02-01 | Rita |
| The Edge of Night | 1956-04-02 | Dr. Julianna Stanhower |
| Schlitz Playhouse of Stars | 1951-10-05 | N/A |
| Lux Video Theatre | 1950-10-02 | Ena Woodman |
| Brothers | 1984-07-13 | N/A |
| The Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts | 1973-09-14 | Self |
| Hart to Hart | 1979-09-22 | N/A |
| Alfred Hitchcock Presents | 1955-10-02 | Carol Arlington |
| The Quest | 1976-05-13 | N/A |
| Cavalcade of America | 1952-10-01 | Nancy Hart |
| The Love Boat | 1977-09-24 | Nora Knox |
| Four Star Playhouse | 1952-09-25 | Susan Pierce |
| The Pet Set | 1971-01-25 | Self |
| The Red Skelton Show | 1951-09-30 | Beverly Fairfield |
| State Trooper | 1956-09-25 | Betty Lavon |
| The Mike Douglas Show | 1961-12-11 | Self – Co-Host |
| Dinah! | 1974-10-21 | Self |