Shirley Mitchell was an American actress who is best known for her roles in “I Love Lucy,” “Fibber McGee and Molly,” and “Please Don’t Eat the Daisies.” She had a long career in radio and television and made a significant impact on the entertainment industry.
Personal and Family Life
Shirley Mitchell was born on November 4, 1919, in Toledo, Ohio. She was married twice; her first husband was Dr. Julian H. Frieden, with whom she had two children, and they divorced in 1974. She later married composer Jay Livingston in 1992, remaining with him until his death in 2001. Mitchell had a sister, Nancy Olson, who was also in the entertainment industry.
Career Highlights
Mitchell’s career began in radio, where she starred in popular shows like “The Great Gildersleeve” and “Fibber McGee and Molly.” She became friends with Lucille Ball during her time on “My Favorite Husband.” Transitioning to television in the 1940s, she appeared in many classic series, making memorable guest appearances on shows like “The Dick Van Dyke Show” and “Perry Mason.” She was particularly known for her role as Marion Strong, Lucy Ricardo’s friend, on “I Love Lucy.”
Death and Legacy
Shirley Mitchell passed away on November 11, 2013, in Westwood, Los Angeles, California, due to heart failure. She was laid to rest alongside her husband at Westwood Memorial Park. Her extensive career in both radio and television has left a lasting legacy, with fans continuing to appreciate her contributions to classic American entertainment.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Jamboree | 1944-05-05 | Alice Darling |
| Cathy | 1987-05-15 | Mom (voice) |
| My Blood Runs Cold | 1965-03-24 | Mrs. Courtland |
| The Happy Family | 1952-03-30 | Marina |
| Summer Camp Nightmare | 1987-04-17 | Mrs. Knute |
| The War of the Roses | 1989-12-08 | Mrs. Dewitt |
| Cathy’s Valentine | 1989-02-10 | Anne, Cathy’s Mother (voice) |
| Cathy’s Last Resort | 1988-11-11 | Anne, Cathy’s Mother (voice) |
| The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air | 1990-09-10 | Mrs. Lang |
| The Beverly Hillbillies | 1962-09-26 | Governess Agnes |
| Perry Mason | 1957-09-21 | Miss Fairweather |
| I Love Lucy | 1951-10-15 | Marion |