Who Is Rue McClanahan? Age, Biography and Wiki
Rue McClanahan was born on February 21, 1934, in Healdton, Oklahoma. She gained fame as an actress and was best known for her role as Blanche Devereaux on the hit television series The Golden Girls. McClanahan's career spanned several decades, captivating audiences with her charm and comedic timing until her passing in 2010. In 2025, her legacy continues to influence artists and entertainers around the world.
| Occupation | Soap Opera Actress |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 21, 1934 |
| Age | 76 Years |
| Birth Place | Healdton, Oklahoma, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 3 June, 2010 |
| Died Place | New York City, U.S. |
Popularity
Rue McClanahan's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
During her lifetime, Rue McClanahan was approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall (165 cm) and her weight fluctuated around 130 pounds (59 kg). Known for her glamorous style, her body measurements were often reported as 37-26-36 inches. Her confident persona made her an iconic presence in the entertainment industry.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Rue McClanahan was married six times throughout her life, navigating a series of relationships that often mirrored the ups and downs of her on-screen characters. She had one son, Mark Bish, from her second marriage. After her final marriage, which ended in divorce, Rue remained single until her death in 2010. Despite her tumultuous romantic life, she is remembered for her close friendships, particularly with her Golden Girls co-stars.
She was the daughter of Dreda Rheua-Nell (née Medaris), a beautician, and William Edwin "Bill" McClanahan, a building contractor. Her name combined her father's middle name of "Edwin", to create Eddi, and her mother's middle name of "Rheua", to create Rue. She stopped using "Eddi" because it was mistaken for a male name, and once led to her accidentally receiving a conscription notice.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of her passing in 2010, Rue McClanahan had an estimated net worth of $10 million. Throughout her career, she earned a significant income from acting, theater productions, and guest appearances on various television shows. Her enduring popularity and the success of The Golden Girls contributed substantially to her financial legacy.
Career, Business and Investments
Rue McClanahan's career began in the 1950s and progressed through various television, film, and theater roles. While she is best known for her work on The Golden Girls, her resume includes appearances in Maude, The Practitioners, and numerous stage performances, showcasing her versatility as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she authored several books and was involved in philanthropy, supporting causes like animal rights and HIV/AIDS awareness.
In February 2017, a Golden Girls–themed eatery named Rue La Rue Cafe, owned by McClanahan's close friend Michael La Rue (who inherited many of the star's personal belongings and in turn decorated the restaurant with them), opened in the Washington Heights section of the New York City borough of Manhattan. However, after less than a year in business, the cafe closed in November 2017.
Social Network
Though Rue McClanahan is no longer with us, her presence remains strong on social media, with fans and fellow actors sharing memories and tributes. Her official fan pages continue to celebrate her legacy, bringing together admirers of her work. While Rue herself may not have utilized social media during her lifetime, her influence persists in the hearts of many.
No funeral service was held for McClanahan; her family created an official memorial page on Facebook, and memorial services were held during the summer of 2010 in New York and Los Angeles. On June 10, 2010, her New York apartment went on the market for an asking price of $2.25 million.
Education
Rue McClanahan studied at the University of Tulsa, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in drama. Her formal education laid the foundation for her impressive career in the performing arts, allowing her to hone her skills and eventually make her mark on television and stage.
In conclusion, Rue McClanahan's impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable. Though she left us in 2010, her spirit and laughter continue to resonate with fans and aspiring actors alike, making her a timeless icon in American television history.
