Beloved Dynasty Star Dies at 98

Betty Harford, the beloved actress known for playing the Carrington family cook on “Dynasty,” has died. She was 98 years old. Her friend, Wendy Mitchell, confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter.

Harford passed away peacefully in Santa Monica, California. Her family was by her side at the time.

A Life in Film and Television

Harford enjoyed a long and varied career in entertainment. She first acted in radio shows during the 1950s.

Her role as Mrs. Gummerson on the hit 1980s primetime soap “Dynasty” made her a familiar face. She also voiced Gumba, Gumby’s mother, in “The Gumby Show.”

According to The Hollywood Reporter, her television credits were extensive. She appeared in classic series like “The Twilight Zone,” “Gunsmoke,” and “Alfred Hitchcock Presents.”

Before “Dynasty,” she had a significant role on “The Paper Chase.” She played Mrs. Nottingham, secretary to John Houseman’s character, in 45 episodes.

Her film work included roles alongside major stars. She played Natalie Wood’s older sister in the 1965 film “Inside Daisy Clover.”

Remembering a Storied Career and Personal Life

Harford’s early stage work was with the prestigious UCLA Theatre Group. She performed with notable actors like Nina Foch and Inga Swenson.

Her personal life included two marriages, both ending with the death of her husband. She is survived by her son, Chris.

In her later years, Harford lived in retirement in the Santa Barbara area. Fans had recently expressed concern online about her well-being.

Mitchell had previously posted on social media about being unable to reach Harford. This was just days before the news of her passing was shared publicly.

The entertainment industry remembers Harford for her decades of reliable character work. Her career spanned the golden age of radio to the height of 1980s television.

Thought you’d like to know

What was Betty Harford’s cause of death?

The specific cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. Her friend confirmed she passed away peacefully with her family present.

What other shows did Betty Harford appear in?

She had roles in “The Twilight Zone,” “Gunsmoke,” and “Alfred Hitchcock Presents.” She also starred in 45 episodes of “The Paper Chase” before her role on “Dynasty.”

Did Betty Harford do any voice acting?

Yes, she was a voice actor for “The Gumby Show.” She provided the voice for Gumba, who was Gumby’s mother in the cartoon series.

Who is Betty Harford’s surviving family?

She is survived by her son, Chris. She was predeceased by her two husbands, sculptor Oliver Andrews and actor Sándor Naszódy.

How did fans find out about her passing?

Her friend, Wendy Mitchell, confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter. Mitchell also shared the information in a public post on social media.