Profile of the Day: Bea Arthur

Posted May 13, 2024 by Amanda | No Comment

On this day in 1922, actress Bea Arthur was born. An Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress, Arthur is perhaps best remembered for her roles in Maude and The Golden Girls.

Image: Bea Arthur / Photo by Alan Light, Wikimedia Commons CC BY 2.0

Arthur was born Bernice Frankel on May 13, 1922 in New York City, New York to Philip Frankel and Rebecca Pressner. During World War II, Arthur enlisted as one of the first members of the United States Marine Corps Women’s Reserve. She served as a typist at Marine headquarters in Washington, D.C. and later as a truck driver and dispatcher.

After serving in the Marines, Arthur studied drama and found work in theater. In 1966, she earned a Tony Award for her role in the musical Mame. Arthur also found success and award recognition on the small screen. In 1971, Arthur guest starred on the groundbreaking comedy All in the Family. The appearance led to her own spin-off series Maude. The show ran for six seasons and never shied away from tackling controversial topics of the era. In 1985, she starred in the hit comedy series The Golden Girls. The beloved show also featured stars Betty White, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty. Do you remember watching?

Explore Bea Arthur’s family tree on Geni and share how you’re connected to the star.