Wallace Earl Laven was an American actress who is best known for her roles in The Monster That Challenged the World, Planet of the Apes, and Clambake. She was born on June 27, 1926, in Miami, Florida, and passed away on February 27, 2012, in Los Angeles, California.
Personal and Family Life
Wallace was born Wallace Earl Sparks to Verla Jo and James Y. Sparks, who divorced in the early 1930s. She had a stepsister named Virginia, who she never met. Wallace was married to Arnold Laven from 1951 until his death in 2009, and they had two children together.
Career
Early in her career, Wallace tried out different stage names, including Eileen Harley and Amanda Ames, which were inspired by her friends. Later, she settled on the name Amanda Harley, as it resonated with her family history. Her acting career included appearances in well-known television series and films throughout the 1970s and beyond.
Death and Legacy
Wallace Earl Laven passed away on February 27, 2012, in Los Angeles, California. Though she is remembered for her performances in several classic films and television shows, her impact on the industry continues through her children, who carry on her legacy.
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| The Monster That Challenged the World | 1957 | Unknown |
| Planet of the Apes | 1974 | Mary Miller |
| Clambake | 1967 | Unknown |
| Hardcastle and McCormick | 1984 | Reporter Jenkins (as Amanda Harley) |
| The Greatest American Hero | 1983 | Gladine (as Amanda Harley) |
| Hill Street Blues | 1982 | Mrs. Malkin (as Amanda Harley) |
| Malibu High | 1979 | Mrs. Bentley (as Phyllis Benson) |
| The Rockford Files | 1978 | Myra (as Wallace Earl) |
| The Six Million Dollar Man | 1975 | Nurse (as Wallace Earl) |
| Mannix | 1972-1974 | Dorothy/Harriet Griswold (as Wallace Earl) |