Encouraged by her mother, she pushed forward — a decision that would shape her future. Her mother remained a guiding force, as she later reflected, “I looked to her for guidance and support, and she always gave it unselfishly. Heavens, she practically raised my daughters while I was doing Barnaby Jones for eight years.”
The actress arrives at TCL Chinese Theatre on January 30, 2019 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images
Following her reign as Miss America, doors quickly opened. The actress joined “The Today Show,” using her scholarships to study under renowned acting coach Lee Strasberg. Her early career included a mix of television, film, and stage work.
For her first TV role, she appeared in “The Philco Television Playhouse” with Mary Astor. She then starred in “The 4-D Man,” her first motion picture lead, alongside Robert Lansing.
The actress is seen on March 4, 2018 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Her first professional stage appearance was in “Hatful of Rain,” with William Smithers and Lou Antonio. These roles laid the foundation for what would become a long and respected career in entertainment.
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