Actress Rue McClanahan of the “Golden Girls” dies at 76

Rue McClanahan, best known for her character Blanche Devereaux- the “sexually liberated Southern Belle” on the Golden Girls passed away at 1 am this morning from a stroke. In 1997, she was treated for breast cancer and in 2009 had heart bypass surgery. Before the hit sitcom The Golden Girls in 1985, McClanahan had a career in Off Broadway & regional shows in the 60s, and was a part of the series Maude in the 70s starring Bea Arthur. (Golden Girl Dorothy) Throughout the years she continued work in stage, tv & film.

McClanahan was married six times: Tom Bish, with whom she had a son, Mark Bish; actor Norman Hartweg; Peter D’Maio; Gus Fisher; and Tom Keel. She married husband Morrow Wilson on Christmas Day in 1997.

Check out this HILARIOUS clip from the show. I loved the Golden Girls so much!