Billie Bird was an American actor who is best known for her roles in Home Alone, The Odd Couple, and Jury Duty. She had a long and varied career in film and television, spanning many decades.
Personal and Family Life
Born as Berneice Stowell on February 28, 1908, in Pocatello, Idaho, Billie Bird had a colorful personal life. She was married four times, with her first marriage to Albert Dennis Griffin lasting from 1926 to 1929. Additionally, she had three children and was married to Edwin Sellen until his death in 1966.
Career
Billie began her career as a vaudeville comedienne, discovered at an orphanage when she was just eight years old. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, she made several USO tours during the Vietnam War, entertaining American troops. She was well-known for her appearances in films such as Dennis the Menace (1993) and Sixteen Candles (1984) and had a memorable role in The Odd Couple (1968).
Death and Legacy
Billie Bird passed away on November 27, 2002, in Granada Hills, California, due to Alzheimer’s disease. Despite her passing, she is remembered for her remarkable contributions to film and television, especially her roles that showcased her talent as a comedic actress.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Home Alone | 1990-11-16 | Woman in Airport |
| The Lemon Drop Kid | 1951-04-02 | Racetrack Bettor on Iron Bar (uncredited) |
| Ernest Saves Christmas | 1988-11-11 | Mary Morrissey |
| Sixteen Candles | 1984-05-04 | Dorothy Baker |
| One Crazy Summer | 1986-08-08 | Grandma |
| Jury Duty | 1995-04-12 | Rose |
| Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol | 1987-04-02 | Mrs. Feldman |
| Dear John | 1988-10-06 | Margie Philbert |
| Max Dugan Returns | 1983-03-25 | Older Woman |
| George & Leo | 1997-09-15 | Cameo |