Irene Ryan
KNOWN FOR View Movie
as Mrs. Mary Wernecke The Woman on the Beach 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.
Filmography
Mighty Joe Young
as Southern Belle at the Bar (uncredited)
The Woman on the Beach
as Mrs. Mary Wernecke
Blackbeard, the Pirate
as Alvina, a lady in waiting
Arch of Triumph
as Irate Wife (uncredited)
The Diary of a Chambermaid
as Louise
My Dear Secretary
as Mary
Meet Me After the Show
as Tillie
Half Angel
as Nurse Kay
Heading for Heaven
as Molly
Reveille with Beverly
as Elsie (uncredited)
San Diego I Love You
as Sheila Jones
Spring Reunion
as Miss Stapleton
Desire in the Dust
as Nora Finney
Texas, Brooklyn & Heaven
as Opal Cheever
Hot Rhythm
as Polly Kane (as Irene)
The Skipper Surprised His Wife
as Mrs. O'Rourke (uncredited)
Don't Worry, We'll Think of a Title
as Granny (uncredited)
That's the Spirit
as Bilson
Rockabilly Baby
as Eunice Johnson
Little Iodine
as Mrs. Tremble