Barbara Lyon

Barbara Lyon was an American actress best known for her roles in “Life with the Lyons,” “The Lyons in Paris,” and “Hollywood on Parade No. B-1.” Born on September 1, 1931, in Los Angeles, California, she became a prominent figure in British radio and television.

Personal and Family Life

Barbara was the daughter of famous film stars Ben Lyon and Bebe Daniels. She had one biological brother, Richard Lyon, and was the adoptive sister of Richard Lyon. Barbara was married twice; her first marriage was to Russell Turner in 1956, and later, she married Colin Burkitt in 1968, with whom she had one son. Both marriages ended in divorce.

Career Highlights

Barbara gained fame as a teenager on the radio show “Life with the Lyons,” which began broadcasting in 1950 and became the first sitcom in Britain. She also pursued a singing career in her mid-20s, earning a record contract with Columbia Records and releasing hit songs like “Stowaway” and “Letter from a Soldier.” She had her own television show titled “Dream Time With Barbara” in 1955, although it was short-lived.

Death and Legacy

Despite her early success, Barbara’s later years were marked by struggles and obscurity. She passed away from a cerebral hemorrhage in West Middlesex, England, on July 10, 1995, at the age of 63. Barbara remains remembered for her contribution to British entertainment and her role as a beloved character in post-war radio.

Filmography