Person file · Acting
Irene Ryan
Born 1902-10-17El Paso, Texas, USA
Before becoming known to millions as Granny on The Beverly Hillbillies (1962), Irene Ryan was already an established vaudeville, radio and movie actress, though not as famous prior to her television stint. She accompanied Bob Hope on his famous military tours and she was known as "the gal who makes Bob Hope laugh." After being cast as Granny, she became famous overnight. When the Hillbillies ended, she co-starred in the Broadway musical 'Pippin' with Ben Vereen. Unfortunately, despite wonderful reviews from critics, Ryan took ill, was discovered to have an inoperable brain tumor and died soon after at the age of 70.
Screen work
Movies & roles
Bob Hope's World of ComedySelf - Tribute Montage (archive footage)Don't Worry, We'll Think of a TitleGranny (uncredited)Desire in the DustNora FinneyRockabilly BabyEunice JohnsonSpring ReunionMiss StapletonRicochet RomanceMiss ClayBlackbeard, the PirateAlvina, a lady in waitingThe WAC from Walla WallaWAC Sgt. KearnsBonzo Goes to CollegeNancyMeet Me After the ShowTillieHalf AngelKayThe Skipper Surprised His WifeMrs. O'Rourke (uncredited)There's a Girl in My HeartMrs. MullinMighty Joe YoungSouthern Belle at the Bar (uncredited)An Old-Fashioned GirlMrs. ShawMy Dear SecretaryMaryTexas, Brooklyn & HeavenOpal CheeverArch of TriumphIrate Wife (uncredited)Heading for HeavenMollyThe Woman on the BeachMrs. Mary WerneckeLittle IodineMrs. TrembleThe Diary of a ChambermaidLouiseThat Night with YouPrudenceThe Beautiful CheatMiss Beatrice Kent