American actress and singer best known for her iconic role as Vera Gorman on the 1970s-80s sitcom "Alice." She brought laughter and charm to the small screen with her lovable and quirky character.
Beth Howland was an American actress best known for her iconic portrayal of Vera Gorman, the lovable and sassy waitress in the hit sitcom Alice, which aired from 1976 to 1985. With her nuanced performance, Howland brought to life a character that became synonymous with warmth, wit, and a dash of sass, earning her four Golden Globe nominations in the process.
Before winning hearts on television, Howland had already made a name for herself on Broadway. Born on May 28, 1941, in Brighton, Massachusetts, she left home at 16 to pursue her passion for dance and performance in New York City. Her big break came in 1959 when she originated the role of Lady Beth in the musical Once Upon a Mattress, which transferred from off-Broadway.
Howland went on to appear in several notable productions, including Bye Bye Birdie, High Spirits, Drat! The Cat!, and Darling of the Day. Her standout performance in Stephen Sondheim's Company, where she introduced the patter song "Getting Married Today," solidified her reputation as a talented and versatile actress.
Howland's transition to television was a natural one. She made her screen debut in the 1959 film Lil' Abner, dancing and singing alongside future television star Valerie Harper. Guest appearances on popular shows like Love, American Style, Cannon, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, and Little House on the Prairie followed, showcasing her range and adaptability.
Her breakout role, of course, was Vera Gorman in Alice, which earned her widespread recognition and acclaim. The show's nine-season run cemented Howland's status as a beloved television personality, and her portrayal of the lovable waitress remains an iconic part of American pop culture.
Howland's personal life was marked by two significant relationships. From 1961 to 1969, she was married to actor Michael J. Pollard, with whom she had a daughter. In 2002, she wed actor Charles Kimbrough, her Company co-star, and remained married until her passing in 2015.
Beth Howland's legacy extends far beyond her memorable performances. She leaves behind a body of work that continues to inspire and delight audiences. As Vera Gorman, she created a character that embodied warmth, empathy, and a dash of humor, making her a beloved figure in American television history.
99 Years Old
A triple-threat entertainer who revolutionized Broadway and Hollywood with his distinctive choreography and direction, blending jazz, vaudeville, and burlesque styles. He's behind iconic works like "Cabaret" and "Chicago".
Born in 1925
A legendary Broadway performer, known for her captivating stage presence, iconic choreography, and starring roles in musicals like "Chicago" and "Damn Yankees".
92 Years Old
Academy Award-winning actress, singer, and dancer known for her iconic film roles in "Terms of Endearment" and "Steel Magnolias", as well as her eccentric persona and spiritual beliefs.
Born in 1917
A legendary entertainer, known for smooth vocals, charming on-screen presence, and iconic Rat Pack performances, leaving a lasting impact on the music and film industries.
Born in 1926
A legendary comedian and actor, best known for his slapstick humor, impressive physical comedy, and iconic films like "The Nutty Professor" and "Martin and Lewis" duo with Dean Martin.
Born in 1915
A legendary entertainer who charmed audiences with smooth vocals and iconic film roles, leaving an indelible mark on American popular culture.
Born in 1918
A comedian and actor who appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including the Rat Pack movies with Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. He was also a popular talk show host.
Born in 1923
A member of the Rat Pack, a group of entertainers that included Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, known for his charismatic on-screen presence and iconic films like "Ocean's 11".
