Ellen Corby was an American actress who starred in over 200 films and television shows during her career. She is best known for her role as Grandma Walton on the CBS television series The Waltons, for which she won three Emmy Awards.
Corby was born in Racine, Wisconsin, on June 3, 1911. She began her acting career in the 1930s, appearing in small roles in films such as Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) and The Grapes of Wrath (1940). In the 1950s, she began appearing in television shows, including The Twilight Zone and Alfred Hitchcock Presents.
In 1972, Corby was cast as Grandma Walton on The Waltons. The show was a critical and commercial success, and Corby won three Emmy Awards for her performance. She continued to appear on the show until its cancellation in 1981.
Corby died on April 14, 1999, at the age of 87.
| Birth Name | Born | Birth Place | Died | Death Place | Nationality |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ellen Hansen | June 3, 1911 | Racine, Wisconsin, U.S | April 14, 1999 | Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California, U.S. | American |
Ellen Corby was a talented actress who brought warmth and humor to her roles. She will always be remembered for her iconic performance as Grandma Walton.
Ellen Corby
Ellen Corby was an American actress best known for her role as Grandma Walton on the CBS television series The Waltons. She was a talented actress who brought warmth and humor to her roles, and she will always be remembered for her iconic performance.
- Actress
- Grandma Walton
- Emmy Awards
- The Waltons
- American
- 1911-1999
- Wisconsin
These key aspects highlight Ellen Corby's career and legacy. She was a successful actress who starred in over 200 films and television shows. She is best known for her role as Grandma Walton on The Waltons, for which she won three Emmy Awards. Corby was a talented actress who brought warmth and humor to her roles. She will always be remembered for her iconic performance as Grandma Walton.
1. Actress
Ellen Corby was an American actress who starred in over 200 films and television shows during her career. She is best known for her role as Grandma Walton on the CBS television series The Waltons, for which she won three Emmy Awards.
Corby's career as an actress began in the 1930s, when she appeared in small roles in films such as Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) and The Grapes of Wrath (1940). In the 1950s, she began appearing in television shows, including The Twilight Zone and Alfred Hitchcock Presents.
In 1972, Corby was cast as Grandma Walton on The Waltons. The show was a critical and commercial success, and Corby won three Emmy Awards for her performance. She continued to appear on the show until its cancellation in 1981.
Corby's role as Grandma Walton was one of the most iconic in television history. She brought warmth, humor, and strength to the character, and she helped to make The Waltons one of the most beloved family shows of all time.
Corby's success as an actress was due in part to her natural talent and her ability to connect with audiences. She was also a hard worker and a dedicated professional. She was always prepared for her roles, and she always gave her best performance.
Corby's legacy as an actress is one of warmth, humor, and professionalism. She was a talented actress who brought joy to millions of people around the world.
2. Grandma Walton
Ellen Corby is best known for her role as Grandma Walton on the CBS television series The Waltons. The character of Grandma Walton is a kind and loving matriarch who is the glue that holds her family together. She is always there for her children and grandchildren, and she always has a wise word of advice. Ellen Corby's portrayal of Grandma Walton is one of the most iconic in television history. She brought warmth, humor, and strength to the character, and she helped to make The Waltons one of the most beloved family shows of all time.
The connection between Ellen Corby and Grandma Walton is a complex one. Corby brought her own personal experiences and qualities to the role, and she helped to shape the character of Grandma Walton into the beloved figure that she is today. Corby was a kind and compassionate person, and she had a deep understanding of human nature. These qualities are evident in her portrayal of Grandma Walton, who is always there for her family and friends, and who always has a kind word to say.
The character of Grandma Walton has had a profound impact on American culture. She is a role model for mothers, grandmothers, and all those who care for others. She teaches us the importance of family, love, and compassion. Ellen Corby's portrayal of Grandma Walton is a timeless treasure, and she will always be remembered for her iconic performance.
3. Emmy Awards
Emmy Awards are one of the most prestigious awards in the television industry, recognizing outstanding achievements in various aspects of television production. Ellen Corby has a significant connection to Emmy Awards, having won three of them for her iconic role as Grandma Walton on The Waltons.
- Recognition for Acting Excellence
Emmy Awards serve as a testament to exceptional acting performances, honoring actors who bring depth, nuance, and authenticity to their roles. Ellen Corby's portrayal of Grandma Walton exemplified this, showcasing her ability to embody a character with warmth, humor, and wisdom.
- Contribution to Television History
The Emmy Awards recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the television landscape. Ellen Corby's role in The Waltons not only garnered critical acclaim but also left an enduring legacy on television, establishing her as a beloved figure.
- Inspiration for Future Generations
Emmy Award winners serve as role models and sources of inspiration for aspiring actors and television professionals. Ellen Corby's success story demonstrates the power of perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in the field.
- Cultural Impact
Emmy Awards reflect the cultural impact of television shows and their ability to shape societal norms and values. Ellen Corby's character, Grandma Walton, became an iconic representation of family values, love, and resilience, resonating with audiences across generations.
In conclusion, Ellen Corby's Emmy Awards are not merely accolades but a testament to her exceptional acting skills, her contribution to television history, her inspirational journey, and the cultural impact of her iconic role as Grandma Walton.
4. The Waltons
The Waltons is an American television series that aired on CBS from 1972 to 1981. The show follows the lives of the Walton family, a rural family living in Virginia during the Great Depression and World War II. Ellen Corby portrayed Grandma Walton, the family's matriarch, in the series.
- Grandma Walton
Ellen Corby's most famous role was Grandma Walton on The Waltons. Grandma Walton is the heart of the Walton family. She is a wise and loving woman who is always there for her children and grandchildren. Corby's portrayal of Grandma Walton is one of the most iconic in television history.
- The Waltons Family
The Waltons family is a close-knit family who live in a small town in Virginia. The family is made up of John and Olivia Walton, their seven children, and Grandma Walton. The Waltons are a loving and supportive family who always have each other's backs.
- The Great Depression
The Waltons live during the Great Depression, a time of economic hardship for many Americans. The Waltons are able to survive the Depression because they are a close-knit family who support each other. The Depression also teaches the Waltons the importance of hard work and perseverance.
- World War II
The Waltons also live during World War II. The war has a profound impact on the family, as several of the Walton children serve in the military. The war also brings the family closer together, as they rally around each other to support those who are fighting.
The Waltons is a heartwarming and inspiring story about a family who overcomes adversity and finds strength in each other. The show is a reminder that even during the most difficult times, family is always there for us.
5. American
Ellen Corby was an American actress, born in Racine, Wisconsin, on June 3, 1911. Corby's American identity played a significant role in her career and personal life.
As an American actress, Corby had access to a wide range of roles and opportunities that may not have been available to her in other countries. She was able to portray a diverse range of characters, from the iconic Grandma Walton on The Waltons to the quirky Aunt Bee on The Andy Griffith Show. Corby's American identity also influenced her acting style, which was often characterized by a down-to-earth sincerity and a strong sense of community.
Beyond her acting career, Corby's American identity shaped her values and beliefs. She was a proud and patriotic American, and she often spoke out about her love for her country. Corby was also a strong supporter of the arts and education, and she believed that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background.
Ellen Corby's American identity was an important part of her life and career. She was a talented actress who brought joy to millions of people around the world. She was also a proud and patriotic American who believed in the power of dreams.
6. 1911-1999
The years 1911-1999 encompass the lifespan of Ellen Corby, an American actress best known for her role as Grandma Walton on the CBS television series The Waltons. Corby's birth in 1911 marked the beginning of her journey as an actress, and her death in 1999 marked the end of an illustrious career that spanned over six decades.
Corby's early life experiences shaped her into the actress she became. She was born in Racine, Wisconsin, to a working-class family. Her father was a machinist, and her mother was a homemaker. Corby attended local schools and began acting in high school. After graduating, she moved to Chicago to pursue her acting career.
Corby's career began in the 1930s, when she appeared in small roles in films such as Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) and The Grapes of Wrath (1940). In the 1950s, she began appearing in television shows, including The Twilight Zone and Alfred Hitchcock Presents.
In 1972, Corby was cast as Grandma Walton on The Waltons. The show was a critical and commercial success, and Corby won three Emmy Awards for her performance. She continued to appear on the show until its cancellation in 1981.
Corby's role as Grandma Walton was one of the most iconic in television history. She brought warmth, humor, and strength to the character, and she helped to make The Waltons one of the most beloved family shows of all time.
Corby's death in 1999 was a great loss to the entertainment industry. She was a talented actress who brought joy to millions of people around the world. She will always be remembered for her iconic role as Grandma Walton and for her contributions to American television.
7. Wisconsin
Wisconsin, a state in the Midwestern region of the United States, holds a significant connection to Ellen Corby, an American actress best known for her role as Grandma Walton on the CBS television series The Waltons.
- Birthplace:
Ellen Corby was born in Racine, Wisconsin, on June 3, 1911. Her birthplace played a formative role in shaping her identity and early experiences, contributing to her down-to-earth nature and strong work ethic.
- Early Life and Education:
Corby spent her formative years in Wisconsin, attending local schools and participating in community activities. Her childhood experiences in the state fostered her love for the arts and laid the foundation for her future acting career.
- Cultural Influences:
Wisconsin's cultural landscape, with its blend of Midwestern values and artistic traditions, influenced Corby's artistic sensibilities. The state's emphasis on community and storytelling resonated with her, shaping her approach to acting and her portrayal of relatable characters.
- Legacy and Recognition:
Corby's connection to Wisconsin continued throughout her career and beyond. She often spoke fondly of her roots in the state, crediting it for instilling in her the values that guided her life and work. Her legacy as an actress and her iconic role as Grandma Walton remain a source of pride for Wisconsin and its residents.
In conclusion, Wisconsin played a significant role in Ellen Corby's life and career. From her birthplace and early experiences to the cultural influences that shaped her artistry, the state left an enduring mark on the actress and her portrayal of beloved characters that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ellen Corby
This section addresses commonly asked questions and misconceptions surrounding Ellen Corby, an American actress known for her iconic role as Grandma Walton.
Question 1: What is Ellen Corby most famous for?
Answer: Ellen Corby is best known for her portrayal of Grandma Walton on the CBS television series The Waltons, a role that earned her three Emmy Awards.
Question 2: Where was Ellen Corby born?
Answer: Ellen Corby was born in Racine, Wisconsin, on June 3, 1911.
Question 3: How many Emmy Awards did Ellen Corby win?
Answer: Ellen Corby won three Emmy Awards for her performance as Grandma Walton on The Waltons.
Question 4: What was Ellen Corby's first acting role?
Answer: Ellen Corby's first acting role was in the 1938 film My Man Godfrey.
Question 5: When did Ellen Corby die?
Answer: Ellen Corby died on April 14, 1999, at the age of 87.
These questions and answers provide a concise overview of Ellen Corby's life, career, and legacy. By addressing common inquiries, this section aims to enhance understanding and dispel any misconceptions surrounding this iconic actress.
Proceed to the next section for further insights into Ellen Corby's remarkable journey and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Ellen Corby
Ellen Corby's enduring legacy as an actress lies in the countless lives she touched through her iconic performances. Her portrayal of Grandma Walton on The Waltons remains a timeless embodiment of love, wisdom, and unwavering family bonds. Corby's ability to bring warmth and humor to memorable roles showcased her exceptional talent and the power of storytelling to uplift and inspire.
Beyond her on-screen presence, Corby's personal qualities left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her dedication to her craft, her unwavering commitment to excellence, and her passion for supporting aspiring actors serve as an enduring example of the values that define a true artist. Ellen Corby's life and career remind us of the profound impact that individuals can have through their art, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain generations.
