Fans bid a ‘sad farewell’ to ‘glamorous leading lady’ Barbara Rush

In a poignant tribute to a Hollywood icon, fans have bid farewell to the legendary Barbara Rush, whose illustrious career spanned the golden era of cinema and television.

Rush, renowned for her elegance and versatility, passed away at the age of 97 on Sunday March 31 , leaving behind a legacy etched in the annals of entertainment history.

The news of Rush’s passing was announced by her daughter, Claudia Cowan, who took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news.

“There’s another star shining on us tonight,” Cowan wrote.

“My beautiful mother was called to heaven on Easter of all days- a nod to the transition and resilience and joy we celebrate on this happy holiday- and I know she will stay alive on in our hearts through cherished memories and movie reruns.

“She was elegant and classic actress and the best mom in the world. Among the last of Old Hollywood Royalty, I will always be your biggest fan.”

 

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A post shared by Claudia Cowan (@claudialcowan)

Born January, 4 1927, Rush began her acting journey on the stage at venues like the Lobero Theatre and the Pasadena Playhouse before making her transition to the silver screen with her debut in  The Goldbergs before captivating audiences with her roles in classics like When Worlds Collide (1951) and Flaming Feather (1952).

In 1954, she earned the Golden Globe Award for Most Promising Newcomer – Female for her role in It Came from Outer Space. Throughout her career, Rush demonstrated remarkable versatility, starring alongside James Mason in the acclaimed drama Bigger Than Life (1956) and sharing the screen with icons like Dean Martin and Paul Newman in The Young Lions and The Young Philadelphians, respectively.

While she excelled in film, Rush also made a significant impact on television, appearing in various TV movies, miniseries, and series such as Peyton Place and All My Children. Known for her portrayal of willful women of means or polished high-society figures, Rush occasionally embraced villainous roles, showcasing her range in productions like Robin and the 7 Hoods (1964) and Hombre (1967).

Her television credits included memorable roles such as Nora Clavicle in Batman and Ann Sommers/Chris Stewart in The Bionic Woman. After a brief hiatus from film with Can’t Stop the Music (1980), Rush returned to television, notably starring in Flamingo Road in the early 1980s.

In later years, Rush continued to grace both stage and screen, earning accolades such as the Sarah Siddons Award for her stage work in Forty Carats (1970) and captivating audiences with her performances in productions like Steel Magnolias (1989). Her television appearances remained consistent, including recurring roles in series like 7th Heaven (2007).

Even as her career progressed, Rush remained dedicated to her craft, making occasional appearances for the Theatre Guild in Orange County, CA.

While her passing marks the end of an era, her contributions to the entertainment industry have been celebrated by fans across the globe with a sea of heartfelt tributes.

Farewell to glamorous leading lady and friend of TCM, Barbara Rush. We are so grateful for the times we spent with you over the years and your generosity to share your stories of your career in Hollywood. @THR remembers her here: https://t.co/R7PkaaB2b7 pic.twitter.com/GuiIoOqJ31

— TCM (@tcm) April 1, 2024

Barbara Rush had many roles on many shows.

But to Robin’s Nesters, she will forever be Thomas Magnum’s Aunt Phoebe.

May her memory be a blessing.

January 4, 1927 – March 31, 2024 pic.twitter.com/XoR1T5t3Ki

— (((BeerRabbi)))🍺 (@BeerRabbi) April 1, 2024

I am so, so sorry to learn of Barbara Rush’s passing. She was a lovely person and actor. She so appreciated her fans and told great stories. May she R.I.P. pic.twitter.com/vMAAa9MMiy

— Aurora (@CitizenScreen) April 1, 2024

SAD FAREWELL – Barbara Rush
Actress Barbara Rush has passed away. Remembered for It Came From Outer Space, Hombre, Robin and the Seven Hoods, Magnificent Obsession, and many others. Ms. Rush was 97 years old. A long life. RIP pic.twitter.com/FAEk0jdS6n

— James L. Neibaur (@JimLNeibaur) April 1, 2024

RIP Barbara Rush, who co-starred with my grandfather James Mason in “Bigger Than Life” (1956). I was born 8 years after James died and never got to meet him, so spending a day with Barbara a few years ago and having that come full circle moment was an incredible experience ❤️🙏 pic.twitter.com/QucXkQkEuD

— James Duke Mason (@JamesDukeMason) April 1, 2024

Rush is survived by her daughter Claudia, son Christopher Hunter, and four grandchildren.

-with AP.