Nancy Walker was an American actress best known for her roles in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” “Rhoda,” and various commercials as Rosie the Waitress for Bounty Paper Towels.
Personal and Family Life
Nancy Walker, born Anna Myrtle Swoyer on May 10, 1922, in Philadelphia, was the daughter of vaudevillian Dewey Barto. She had a brief earlier marriage to Gar Moore before marrying vocal coach David Craig in 1951. Together, they had a daughter named Miranda. Walker faced several personal challenges, including insecurities and health issues, but maintained strong family ties throughout her life.
Career Highlights
Walker began her career in theater, receiving acclaim for her performances in Broadway musicals. She gained significant recognition after starring in “Best Foot Forward,” which led to film roles in productions like “Girl Crazy” and “On the Town.” In the 1970s, she became a beloved television star, known for her comedic roles in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and its spin-off “Rhoda,” garnering multiple Emmy nominations during her career.
Death and Legacy
Nancy Walker passed away on March 25, 1992, from lung cancer in Studio City, California. She was remembered for her immense talent and humor, leaving a lasting impact on both television and theater. Her contributions to entertainment continue to be celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Murder by Death | 1976-06-23 | Maid |
| The World’s Greatest Athlete | 1973-02-14 | Mrs. Petersen |
| Lucky Me | 1954-04-09 | Flo Neely |
| Girl Crazy | 1943-11-26 | Polly Williams |
| Best Foot Forward | 1943-10-08 | Nancy – Blind Date |
| Broadway Rhythm | 1944-01-19 | Trixie Jimson |
| Rhoda | 1974-09-09 | Ida Morgenstern |
| True Colors | 1990-09-02 | Sara Bower |
| The Mary Tyler Moore Show | 1970-09-19 | Ida Morgenstern |
| McMillan & Wife | 1971-09-29 | Mildred |