Early Life and Education of Betty White: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 8, 2025

An overview of the childhood and early education of Betty White, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Betty White was a highly influential and prolific American actress and comedian, renowned for her extensive career in television, which spanned nearly seven decades. A pioneer in the early days of television, she gained prominence through her roles in sitcoms, sketch comedy, and game shows. Her remarkable career and enduring popularity established her as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

January 17, 1922: Betty White's Birth

On January 17, 1922, Betty Marion Ludden (née White), later known professionally as Betty White, was born. She became a renowned American actress and comedian.

Others born on this day/year

1939: Graduation from Beverly Hills High School

In 1939, Betty White graduated from Beverly Hills High School.

1941: Volunteering for the American Women's Voluntary Services

In 1941, after the U.S. entered World War II, Betty White volunteered for the American Women's Voluntary Services, driving a PX truck and participating in events for troops.

1945: Marriage to Dick Barker

In 1945, after meeting while volunteering with the American Women's Voluntary Services, Betty White married Air Force P-38 pilot Dick Barker and moved to Belle Center, Ohio, where he owned a chicken farm.

1947: Marriage to Lane Allen

In 1947, Betty White married Hollywood talent agent Lane Allen.

1949: Divorce from Lane Allen

In 1949, Betty White divorced Lane Allen because he wanted to start a family, but she wanted to focus on her career.

1961: Met Allen Ludden on Password

In 1961, Betty White met her future husband Allen Ludden when she appeared as a celebrity guest on his game show "Password".

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June 14, 1963: Marriage to Allen Ludden

On June 14, 1963, Betty White married television host Allen Ludden, whom she had met as a celebrity guest on his game show Password in 1961. Her legal name was changed to Betty Marion Ludden.

June 9, 1981: Death of Allen Ludden

On June 9, 1981, Allen Ludden, Betty White's husband, died from stomach cancer in Los Angeles.

2010: Interview on The Interviews: An Oral History of Television

In 2010, Mary Tyler Moore discussed the initial hesitation to audition Betty White for "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" due to their friendship, in "The Interviews: An Oral History of Television".

2010: Inside the Actors Studio Interview

In 2010, during an interview on "Inside the Actors Studio" with James Lipton, Betty White expressed that if Heaven exists, she would like God to say to her, "Come on in, Betty. Here's Allen."

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December 25, 2021: Stroke

On December 25, 2021, Betty White suffered a stroke.

June 2022: Sale of Carmel Home

In June 2022, Betty White's Carmel, California home was sold, following the April sale of her Brentwood home. Her personal belongings were sold at auction that September, with proceeds donated to several charities.