The Early Life of Eleanor Audley
Eleanor Audley was born on November 19, 1905, in New York City. She was the only child of William and Estelle Audley. Her father was a building contractor, while her mother was a homemaker. Eleanor grew up in a comfortable and loving environment, which helped her develop her passion for acting at an early age.
She attended the Barnard School for Girls, where she excelled in drama and literature. After graduating, she pursued her acting career and landed her first role in the Broadway production of “Frankie and Johnny” in 1930. This marked the beginning of a successful career that would span several decades and include numerous memorable performances on stage, radio, and television.
Eleanor Audley’s Career in TV Shows
Eleanor Audley’s most famous role on television was that of Madame Leota in Disney’s “The Haunted Mansion” attraction. However, she also appeared in many other popular TV shows throughout her career, including “I Love Lucy,” “The Beverly Hillbillies,” and “Perry Mason.” In “I Love Lucy,” she played the role of Mrs. McGillicuddy, Lucy’s mother, in several episodes.
Another notable TV role for Audley was in the 1960s sitcom “Green Acres,” where she played the part of Eunice Douglas, the snobbish wife of Oliver Wendell Douglas’s (Eddie Albert) lawyer. Her performance in “Green Acres” earned her praise from critics and audiences alike, and it remains one of her most memorable roles to this day.
Eleanor Audley’s Role in “Jeanne Eagels”
In 1957, Eleanor Audley played the role of Mrs. Chisholm in the film “Jeanne Eagels,” a biographical drama about the life of the famous actress. The film starred Kim Novak in the lead role and received critical acclaim for its portrayal of Eagels’ tumultuous life and career.
Audley’s performance in “Jeanne Eagels” was also well-received, and it showcased her versatility as an actress. Her portrayal of Mrs. Chisholm, a supportive friend of Eagels, was both sensitive and nuanced, and it added depth to the film’s emotional impact.
Eleanor Audley in “A Summer Place”
In 1959, Eleanor Audley appeared in the romantic drama “A Summer Place,” which starred Sandra Dee and Troy Donahue. In the film, Audley played the role of Mrs. Emily Hamilton, the wealthy and overbearing mother of Donahue’s character, Johnny.
Audley’s performance in “A Summer Place” was memorable for its portrayal of a controlling and manipulative mother, who tries to break up her son’s relationship with Dee’s character. Her performance added a layer of complexity to the film’s themes of love, class, and family dynamics.
Eleanor Audley’s Role in “Maleficent”
Eleanor Audley’s legacy in the entertainment industry was cemented with her role as the voice of Maleficent in Disney’s animated classic “Sleeping Beauty” in 1959. Her performance as the wicked fairy godmother is considered one of the most iconic voice acting performances in animation history.
In 2014, Angelina Jolie played the role of Maleficent in a live-action adaptation of the story. However, the filmmakers paid tribute to Audley’s original performance by incorporating some of her lines and mannerisms into Jolie’s portrayal of the character. This is a testament to the lasting impact of Audley’s work in the entertainment industry.
FAQ
Who is Eleanor Audley?
Eleanor Audley was an American actress who performed in various TV shows, films, and stage productions.
What were some of the TV shows that Eleanor Audley appeared in?
Eleanor Audley appeared in several popular TV shows such as “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”, “Perry Mason”, “The Dick Van Dyke Show”, and “The Beverly Hillbillies”.
What was Eleanor Audley’s most famous voice role?
Eleanor Audley’s most famous voice role was that of Maleficent in the Disney animated film “Sleeping Beauty”.
Did Eleanor Audley only work in voice acting?
No, Eleanor Audley also worked in live-action acting, appearing in various TV shows and films.
What was the name of the character that Eleanor Audley voiced in “Cinderella”?
Eleanor Audley voiced the character of Lady Tremaine, the wicked stepmother in the Disney animated film “Cinderella”.
What was the last film that Eleanor Audley worked on?
The last film that Eleanor Audley worked on was “The Aristocats”, a 1970 Disney animated film in which she voiced the character of Madame Adelaide Bonfamille.
