Biography
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
Cast Credits
The Don Knotts Show
Character: Self
TV • 1970

Love, American Style
Character:
TV • 1969

Don't Worry, We'll Think of a Title
Character: Granny (uncredited)
MOVIE • 1966

The Dean Martin Show
Character:
TV • 1965

The Hollywood Palace
Character: Self - Panelist
TV • 1964

The Danny Kaye Show
Character: Self
TV • 1963

Petticoat Junction
Character: Granny
TV • 1963

The Merv Griffin Show
Character: Self
TV • 1962

The Beverly Hillbillies
Character: Granny
TV • 1962

Mister Ed
Character:
TV • 1961

Desire in the Dust
Character: Nora Finney
MOVIE • 1960
Bringing Up Buddy
Character:
TV • 1960

My Three Sons
Character:
TV • 1960

Rockabilly Baby
Character: Eunice Johnson
MOVIE • 1957

The Real McCoys
Character:
TV • 1957

Alcoa Theatre
Character: Martha Henderson
TV • 1957

Spring Reunion
Character: Miss Stapleton
MOVIE • 1957

Matinee Theater
Character:
TV • 1955

Ricochet Romance
Character: Miss Clay
MOVIE • 1954
The Whistler
Character:
TV • 1954