Most of us have never known a world without Betty White. She got her start on television when TV itself was just beginning on the West Coast. America’s affection for the star only grew deeper with each passing decade. Some fell for her happy nymphomaniac Sue Ann Nivens on The Mary Tyler Moore Show in the 1970s. A decade later, others cheered for her single (and ready to mingle) Rose Nylund on The Golden Girls. And an entirely new generation of fans embraced her as everyone’s honorary great grandmother—a person to protect, respect and turn to for comfort when times were tough. In this special edition, we remember the pioneer, animal lover, and friend who brought joy to so many people for almost 100 years.
From TV Pioneer to National Treasure
The Trailblazer • The incomparable Betty White spent more than 80 years in showbiz and helped pave the way for countless women entertainers who followed in her footsteps. Here’s how the queen of the small screen earned her well-deserved crown.
Life Behind the Curtain • Betty White enjoyed a long love affair with her storied career in Hollywood. But nothing compared to the beautiful love story she lived with her husband, Allen Ludden, off-screen.
The Golden Years • Some TV stars reckon they’re lucky to have just one hit show that stands the test of time. For Betty White, the hits kept coming. Here, a look back on the two roles that cemented her place in Hollywood.
The Best of Sue Ann & Rose • With so many brilliant episodes of The Mary Tyler Moore Show and The Golden Girls, it’s hard to pick favorites. But here are 10 standouts we think are worth rewatching, in no particular order.
The Advocate • As much as she was an entertainer, Betty White also didn’t hesitate to stand up for what she believed in. That included everything from clapping back against racism to being a champion for animals.
A National Treasure • Over her career, Betty White transformed from cheeky young housewife to acid-tongued senior. Her ability to reinvent herself time and again made her one of pop culture’s most beloved icons.
Betty White Tribute
PHOTO CREDITS
