Introduction
Ellen Corby was an American actress known for her work in film, television, and radio. She was born on June 3, 1911, in Racine, Wisconsin, and started her career as a script supervisor before making her way to acting. Corby was a versatile actress who appeared in over 100 films and TV shows throughout her career. In this article, we will take a closer look at her life, career, and legacy on IMDb, including her partner, adoption, stroke, cause of death, and movies.
Ellen Corby’s Early Life and Career
Ellen Hansen Corby was born in Racine, Wisconsin, in 1911. She started her career as a script supervisor at RKO Studios before transitioning to acting. Corby made her film debut in 1933 in “The Bowery,” and over the next few years, she appeared in several films, including “It Happened One Night” and “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.”
However, Corby’s breakthrough came in 1948 when she played Aunt Trina in the film “I Remember Mama.” The role earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Corby continued to work in film throughout the 1950s, but it was her work on television that made her a household name.
Ellen Corby’s Legacy on IMDb
Ellen Corby is best known for her role as Grandma Esther Walton on the TV series “The Waltons.” She appeared in over 140 episodes of the show and won an Emmy Award for her performance in 1973. Corby’s work on “The Waltons” made her a beloved figure in American households, and her legacy on IMDb is a testament to her talent and dedication.
Corby’s IMDb page lists over 100 credits, including films like “Shane” and “The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance” and TV shows like “Gunsmoke” and “Dr. Kildare.” Her work in Hollywood spanned over six decades, and she remained active in the industry until her death in 1999.
Ellen Corby and Her Partner
Ellen Corby was in a long-term relationship with Stella Luchetta, a costume designer. The two women lived together for over 30 years, and their relationship was one of the worst-kept secrets in Hollywood. However, due to the social stigma surrounding homosexuality at the time, Corby and Luchetta were never open about their relationship in public.
Corby and Luchetta remained together until Luchetta’s death in 1993. Corby never publicly acknowledged her relationship with Luchetta, but her obituary in the Los Angeles Times referred to Luchetta as her “companion.”
Ellen Corby’s Adoption of Jason
Ellen Corby was a single mother who adopted a son named Christopher in 1944. However, when Christopher was 14 years old, Corby adopted another child, a boy named Jason. Jason was born with cerebral palsy and required constant care, but Corby was determined to give him the best life possible.
Corby’s love for Jason was evident in her work on “The Waltons.” In the show, her character, Grandma Esther Walton, was shown caring for a disabled child named Elizabeth. Corby’s portrayal of Grandma Esther’s love and dedication to Elizabeth was inspired by her own experiences with Jason.
Ellen Corby’s Stroke and Cause of Death
In 1976, Ellen Corby suffered a stroke that left her partially paralyzed. The stroke forced her to take a break from acting, but she eventually returned to work on “The Waltons.” However, her health continued to decline, and she retired from acting in 1979.
Ellen Corby passed away on April 14, 1999, at the age of 87. The cause of death was complications from pneumonia. Corby’s legacy in Hollywood and her impact on the entertainment industry will never be forgotten.
Conclusion
Ellen Corby was a talented actress who left a lasting impact on Hollywood. Her work in film and television was recognized with numerous awards, including an Academy Award nomination and an Emmy Award. Corby’s personal life was marked by her love for her partner, Stella Luchetta, and her dedication to her adopted son, Jason. Her legacy on IMDb is a testament to her talent and the impact she had on the entertainment industry.
