Beverly Garland

Actress[10][11]

What is Beverly Garland known for?

Beverly Garland, originally named Beverly Lucy Fessenden, was born in Santa Cruz, California on October 17, 1926. Starting her career in 1949, Beverly had an expansive career in television and cinema that lasted until 2005.

Her early years were spent in California, attending North High School, Phoenix, Arizona, from where she graduated. It was during these formative years that she developed an interest in drama, studying under Anita Arliss. Garland's acting skills were sharpened through her participation in summer stock theatre.

Beverly took on diverse roles throughout her career, often playing tough, secure women who could navigate intense, sometimes violent situations. Highlight films from this era include "D.O.A." where she kept secrets as a savvy secretary and "Gunslinger," where she portrayed a female marshal. Under director Roger Corman, she further showcased her talent as a prison escapee in "Swamp Diamonds" and battled extraterrestrial invaders as a scientist's wife in "It Conquered the World."

Besides her film achievements, Beverly's television roles also distinguished her. In 1957-1958, she made television history as Casey Jones in the police series "Decoy," marking the first time an American TV police series featured a woman in the starring role. Furthermore, she may be best remembered for her role as Barbara Harper Douglas on the beloved sitcom "My Three Sons," which she played from 1969 until the series concluded in 1972. As the 1980s rolled in, she continued her television success in the CBS series "Scarecrow and Mrs. King," playing Dotty West, mother of Kate Jackson's character, and had a recurring role on "7th Heaven."

Beverly Garland passed away on December 5, 2008, in Los Angeles, California, but her legacy in American television and film continues to live on in the hearts of her fans.

For more information on Beverly Garland, you can explore resources through the following links: