Carla Balenda

Carla Balenda was an American actress who is best known for her roles in “The Whip Hand,” “Hunt the Man Down,” and “Outlaw Women.” Born Sally Bliss, she made a significant impact in Hollywood during her acting career.

Personal and Family Life

Carla Balenda was born in Carthage, New York, and later moved to Amityville, Long Island. She received drama training in Rhode Island and was noticed by Howard Hughes, who invited her to Hollywood. She married her first husband, John Martin, a WWII pilot, when she was just 19, and they had two sons before divorcing in 1959. In 1965, she married attorney William Rutter, with whom she spent many years before his passing in 2012.

Death and Legacy

Carla Balenda passed away on April 9, 2024, in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California. Her legacy includes not only her film and television roles but also her dedication to family and community service after stepping away from acting. She left behind a large family, including thirteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Filmography

Title Release Date Character
The Whip Hand 1951-10-01 Janet Keller
Hunt the Man Down 1950-12-26 Rolene Wood
Outlaw Women 1952-04-28 Beth Larabee
The Pace That Thrills 1952-03-01 Eve Drake
Sealed Cargo 1951-05-19 Margaret McLean
Phantom Stallion 1954-02-10 Claire
Swing in the Saddle 1944-07-30 Judy Bayliss
Prince of Pirates 1953-03-07 Princess Maria
Rustlers of the Badlands 1945-08-16 Sally Boylston (as Sally Bliss)
Eadie Was a Lady 1945-01-24 Doris (as Sally Bliss)
The Adventures of Dr. Fu Manchu 1956-09-03 Betty Leonard
Perry Mason 1957-09-21 Kay McKenzie