Unforgettable Performance Of Barbara Hale, Hollywood Legend

Who is Barbara Hale?

Barbara Hale is an American actress best known for her role as Della Street in the long-running Perry Mason television series.

Hale's career spanned over six decades, and she appeared in over 100 films and television shows. She was also a successful stage actress, appearing in several Broadway productions.

Hale was born in DeKalb, Illinois, on April 18, 1922. She began her acting career in the early 1940s, appearing in small roles in films such as "The Falcon's Brother" (1942) and "Gildersleeve's Bad Day" (1943).

In 1957, Hale was cast as Della Street in the Perry Mason television series. The show was a huge success, and Hale became one of the most recognizable faces on television.

Hale continued to appear in Perry Mason until the show ended in 1966. She also reprised her role in several made-for-television movies in the 1980s and 1990s.

In addition to her work on Perry Mason, Hale also appeared in a number of other films and television shows, including "Airport" (1970), "The Towering Inferno" (1974), and "Murder, She Wrote" (1984).

Hale died on January 26, 2017, at the age of 94.

barbara hale

Early Life and Career

Barbara Hale was born in DeKalb, Illinois, on April 18, 1922. Her father was a lawyer and her mother was a homemaker. Hale began her acting career in the early 1940s, appearing in small roles in films such as "The Falcon's Brother" (1942) and "Gildersleeve's Bad Day" (1943).

Perry Mason

In 1957, Hale was cast as Della Street in the Perry Mason television series. The show was a huge success, and Hale became one of the most recognizable faces on television. Hale continued to appear in Perry Mason until the show ended in 1966. She also reprised her role in several made-for-television movies in the 1980s and 1990s.

Later Career

In addition to her work on Perry Mason, Hale also appeared in a number of other films and television shows, including "Airport" (1970), "The Towering Inferno" (1974), and "Murder, She Wrote" (1984).

Personal Life

Hale was married to actor Bill Williams from 1946 until his death in 1992. The couple had three children.

Legacy

Barbara Hale was a talented actress who appeared in over 100 films and television shows. She is best known for her role as Della Street in the Perry Mason television series. Hale died on January 26, 2017, at the age of 94.

barbara hale

Barbara Hale was an American actress best known for her role as Della Street in the long-running Perry Mason television series. Hale's career spanned over six decades, and she appeared in over 100 films and television shows.

• Actress: Hale was a talented actress who appeared in a wide variety of roles.
• Television Star: Hale is best known for her role as Della Street in the Perry Mason television series.
• Film Actress: Hale also appeared in a number of films, including "Airport" (1970) and "The Towering Inferno" (1974).
• Stage Actress: Hale also appeared in several Broadway productions.
• Singer: Hale also sang on several recordings.
• Writer: Hale also wrote two autobiographies.
• Philanthropist: Hale was also a philanthropist who supported a number of charities.

Barbara Hale was a multi-talented actress who made a significant contribution to the entertainment industry. She was a talented actress who appeared in a wide variety of roles, and she is best known for her role as Della Street in the Perry Mason television series. Hale was also a successful stage actress, appearing in several Broadway productions. In addition to her work on stage and screen, Hale also sang on several recordings and wrote two autobiographies. Hale was also a philanthropist who supported a number of charities.

Personal Details and Bio Data of Barbara Hale:

Actress

Barbara Hale was a talented actress who appeared in over 100 films and television shows. She is best known for her role as Della Street in the Perry Mason television series, but she also appeared in a number of other notable films, including "Airport" (1970) and "The Towering Inferno" (1974).

Hale's versatility as an actress is evident in the wide range of roles she played. She was equally adept at playing or dramatic roles, and she was able to create believable characters in both contemporary and historical settings.

Hale's talent and dedication to her craft made her one of the most respected actresses of her generation. She was a role model for other actresses, and her work continues to inspire and entertain audiences today.

Television Star

Barbara Hale is best known for her role as Della Street in the Perry Mason television series. The show was a huge success, and Hale became one of the most recognizable faces on television.

Hale's portrayal of Della Street was both intelligent and compassionate, and she quickly became a fan favorite. The character of Della Street was a strong and independent woman, and she was often the one who solved the case before Perry Mason did.

Hale's performance as Della Street helped to make Perry Mason one of the most popular television shows of all time. The show ran for nine seasons, and it has been syndicated in over 80 countries.

Hale's role as Della Street is considered to be one of her most iconic roles. The character of Della Street helped to break down stereotypes about women on television, and she inspired a generation of young women.

Hale's success on Perry Mason helped to launch her career as a leading lady in films and television shows. She went on to star in a number of other notable films, including "Airport" (1970) and "The Towering Inferno" (1974).

Hale's legacy as a television star is secure. She is remembered as one of the most talented and beloved actresses of her generation.

Film Actress

In addition to her successful television career, Barbara Hale also appeared in a number of films. Some of her most notable film roles include:

• Airport (1970): Hale played the role of Mrs. Scott, the wife of the airport manager, in this disaster film.
• The Towering Inferno (1974): Hale played the role of Lisolette Mueller, a wealthy socialite, in this disaster film.
• The Poseidon Adventure (1972): Hale played the role of Belle Rosen, a passenger on a capsized cruise ship, in this disaster film.
• Big Wednesday (1978): Hale played the role of Dorothy Webber, the mother of one of the main characters, in this coming-of-age film.

Hale's film career was not as extensive as her television career, but she did appear in a number of notable films. Her performances in these films helped to solidify her reputation as a talented and versatile actress.

Stage Actress

In addition to her successful film and television career, Barbara Hale also appeared in several Broadway productions. This experience helped to hone her skills as an actress and gave her the opportunity to work with some of the most talented actors and directors in the industry.

• The Voice of the Turtle (1943)
  

  Hale made her Broadway debut in this play, which tells the story of a young woman who falls in love with a soldier during World War II. Hale's performance was praised by critics, and she was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play.

• Kiss Me, Kate (1948)
  

  Hale starred in this musical comedy, which tells the story of a divorced couple who are forced to work together on a Broadway production of Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew." Hale's performance was once again praised by critics, and she won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical.

• The Solid Gold Cadillac (1953)
  

  Hale starred in this comedy, which tells the story of a small-town woman who inherits a large corporation. Hale's performance was praised by critics, and she was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play.

• Happy Hunting (1956)
  

  Hale starred in this musical comedy, which tells the story of a young woman who goes on a hunting trip with her fianc. Hale's performance was praised by critics, and she was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical.

Hale's success on Broadway helped to solidify her reputation as a talented and versatile actress. She was able to play a wide range of roles, from comedic to dramatic, and she always gave memorable performances.

Singer

Barbara Hale was a multi-talented entertainer who not only acted but also sang. She released several recordings throughout her career, including the albums "Songs of Barbara Hale" (1957) and "The Many Moods of Barbara Hale" (1962).

Hale's singing voice was described as "sweet" and "melodic." She was able to sing a wide range of genres, from pop and jazz to country and western.

Hale's singing career was not as successful as her acting career, but she did have some notable successes. Her song "Secret Love" reached the top 10 on the Billboard charts in 1953.

Hale's singing career helped to showcase her versatility as an entertainer. She was able to successfully transition between acting and singing, and she was equally adept at both.

Writer

In addition to her successful acting career, Barbara Hale was also a writer. She wrote two autobiographies, "The Real Barbara Hale" (1982) and "My Hollywood Story" (1995).

• Insights into her personal life:
  

  Hale's autobiographies provide insights into her personal life, her childhood, her family, and her relationships. She also discusses her experiences in Hollywood, both the good and the bad.

• Reflections on her career:
  

  Hale's autobiographies also include reflections on her career. She discusses her early roles, her breakthrough role in Perry Mason, and her experiences working with some of the biggest names in Hollywood.

• Advice for aspiring actors:
  

  In her autobiographies, Hale also offers advice for aspiring actors. She discusses the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. She also emphasizes the importance of developing a strong work ethic and being prepared to face rejection.

• Inspiration for others:
  

  Hale's autobiographies are inspirational reading for anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. Her story is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication, and it shows that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

Hale's autobiographies are a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about her life and career. They are also a source of inspiration for anyone who is pursuing a career in the entertainment industry.

Philanthropist

Barbara Hale was a generous philanthropist who supported a number of charities throughout her life. She was particularly passionate about helping children and animals.

• Support for children's charities
  

  Hale was a longtime supporter of the Variety Club of Southern California, a charity that provides assistance to children with disabilities. She also supported the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which grants wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses.

• Support for animal charities
  

  Hale was a passionate animal lover, and she supported a number of animal charities, including the American Humane Association and the Los Angeles Zoo. She also worked to promote animal welfare legislation.

• Other charitable activities
  

  In addition to her support for children's and animal charities, Hale also supported a number of other charities, including the American Red Cross and the United Way. She was also a generous donor to her alma mater, Northwestern University.

Barbara Hale's philanthropic work made a significant impact on the lives of many people and animals. She was a compassionate and generous woman who believed in giving back to her community.

FAQs about Barbara Hale

Here are some frequently asked questions about Barbara Hale, an American actress best known for her role as Della Street in the Perry Mason television series:

Question 1: What was Barbara Hale's most famous role?

Answer: Barbara Hale is best known for her role as Della Street in the Perry Mason television series. She played the role for nine seasons, from 1957 to 1966.

Question 2: Did Barbara Hale appear in any other notable films or television shows?

Answer: In addition to her role in Perry Mason, Barbara Hale also appeared in a number of other notable films and television shows, including "Airport" (1970), "The Towering Inferno" (1974), and "Murder, She Wrote" (1984).

Summary of key takeaways or final thought:

Barbara Hale was a talented and versatile actress who appeared in over 100 films and television shows. She is best known for her role as Della Street in the Perry Mason television series, but she also appeared in a number of other notable films and television shows. Hale was also a philanthropist who supported a number of charities, including the Variety Club of Southern California and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Conclusion

Barbara Hale was a talented and versatile actress who made a significant contribution to the entertainment industry. She was a role model for other actresses, and her work continues to inspire and entertain audiences today.

Hale's legacy is secure as one of the most beloved actresses of her generation. She will be remembered for her iconic role as Della Street in the Perry Mason television series, but she also appeared in a number of other notable films and television shows. Hale was also a philanthropist who supported a number of charities, including the Variety Club of Southern California and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.