Gina Heslop
Barbara Rush, a celebrated actress and Golden Globe winner, has passed away at the age of 97. Known for her captivating performances in both film and television, Barbara left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Her death was confirmed by her daughter, Claudia Cowan, who shared that Barbara died peacefully at home. Claudia expressed that her mother passed away at 5:28 PM, and she felt comforted by the fact that she had been with her earlier in the day. Claudia also noted that it was fitting her mother chose Easter, one of her favorite holidays, as the day to make her final transition.
Barbara Rush was a prominent figure in Hollywood, especially during the 1950s. She is perhaps best remembered for her role in the science fiction horror movie It Came From Outer Space (1953), which earned her a Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer – Female. This role was a significant turning point in her career, propelling her into the spotlight and solidifying her status as a rising star.
Throughout her illustrious career, Barbara worked alongside some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including Marlon Brando, Dean Martin, and Frank Sinatra. Her talent and beauty made her a sought-after actress in both film and television. Among her notable film roles were appearances in Robin and the Seven Hoods (1964) and Come Blow Your Horn (1963), where she starred alongside Frank Sinatra. These films further showcased her versatility and ability to shine in different genres.
In addition to her success in film, Barbara Rush also made a significant impact on television. She is perhaps best known for her role as Marsha Russell in the popular soap opera Peyton Place. Her portrayal of Marsha endeared her to audiences and solidified her place in television history. Barbara also had memorable roles in other TV shows, such as her portrayal of Eudora Weldon in Flamingo Road, another well-known soap opera.
Barbara’s personal life was marked by three marriages and subsequent divorces. Her first marriage was to actor Jeffrey Hunter in 1950, followed by a marriage to publicist Warren Cowan in 1959, and finally to sculptor Jim Gruzalski in 1970. Despite the ups and downs in her personal life, Barbara continued to focus on her career and her family, particularly her daughter Claudia.
In her later years, Barbara Rush lived away from the Hollywood spotlight, spending her time in relative peace and privacy. Her daughter Claudia often shared heartfelt tributes to her mother, expressing the deep love and admiration she felt for her.
In February, just a few months before Barbara’s passing, Claudia posted a picture of herself with her mother on Instagram, cherishing the moments they had left together. Claudia wrote about how precious their time was and how she wanted to ensure that her mother knew just how much she was loved and appreciated.
While Barbara may no longer be with us, her legacy lives on through her unforgettable performances and the impact she made on the entertainment industry. Barbara’s career spanned several decades, during which she earned the admiration of her peers and the love of fans around the world. Her contribution to cinema and television will continue to be celebrated, and she will be remembered not just for her roles, but for the grace and dignity with which she lived her life.
