Cloris Leachman was a highly acclaimed American actress and comedian with a career spanning almost 80 years. Her numerous awards include a record-breaking eight Primetime Emmy Awards (from 22 nominations, tying with Julia Louis-Dreyfus for most wins), an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, and a Golden Globe Award.
10/8/1955: Cloris Leachman Appears in Alfred Hitchcock Presents "Premonition"
Cloris Leachman showcased her talent on the small screen in the episode "Premonition" of Alfred Hitchcock Presents, which aired on October 8, 1955. Sharing the screen with John Forsythe, she captivated audiences with her performance.
11/2/1961: Cloris Leachman Appears in "The Twilight Zone" Episode "It's a Good Life"
On November 2, 1961, Cloris Leachman appeared in the iconic "Twilight Zone" episode "It's a Good Life." Her performance in this classic episode showcased her ability to excel in the science fiction and fantasy genres.
April 30, 1926: Birth of Cloris Leachman
On April 30, 1926, Cloris Leachman, the celebrated American actress and comedian, was born. Her career, spanning nearly eight decades, would leave an unforgettable mark on the entertainment industry.
1946: Cloris Leachman Competes in Miss America Pageant
In 1946, a young Cloris Leachman took the stage at the Miss America pageant, showcasing her talent and charisma. This experience would pave the way for her future success in the world of entertainment.
1946: Cloris Leachman Competes as Miss Chicago in Miss America Pageant
Representing Chicago, Cloris Leachman participated in the Miss America pageant in 1946, even securing a scholarship after placing in the top 16. This event provided a stepping stone for her burgeoning career in entertainment.
1947: Cloris Leachman Makes Uncredited Film Debut in "Carnegie Hall"
Marking her first foray into the world of film, Cloris Leachman appeared as an extra in "Carnegie Hall" in 1947. Although uncredited, this experience provided a glimpse into her future success on the silver screen.
1948: Cloris Leachman Makes Professional Acting Debut
The year 1948 marked the beginning of Cloris Leachman's illustrious professional acting career. Her talent and dedication quickly earned her recognition and paved the way for a career filled with memorable roles.
1953: Marriage to George Englund
Cloris Leachman married Hollywood impresario George Englund in 1953.
1953: Cloris Leachman Exits "The Crucible" Before Opening Night
In a dramatic turn of events, Cloris Leachman left the production of Arthur Miller's "The Crucible" in 1953, just before its Broadway opening. Despite heavy publicity and her name appearing in the program, she was replaced by Madeleine Sherwood, marking a significant moment in her early career.
1955: Cloris Leachman Stars in "Alfred Hitchcock Presents"
Cloris Leachman showcased her talent for suspense in 1955, starring in an episode of the acclaimed series "Alfred Hitchcock Presents." Her performance captivated audiences and added to the show's legacy of suspenseful storytelling.
1956: Cloris Leachman Guest Stars on "Gunsmoke"
In 1956, Cloris Leachman graced the screen as a guest star on the Western series "Gunsmoke." Her performance as Flory Tibbs in the episode "Legal Revenge" showcased her ability to embody complex characters in the genre.
1956: Cloris Leachman Stars Alongside Paul Newman in "The Rack"
Sharing the screen with Paul Newman and Lee Marvin, Cloris Leachman delivered a powerful performance in the 1956 film "The Rack." This role further solidified her presence in Hollywood and showcased her acting prowess.
1957: Cloris Leachman Joins "Lassie" Cast
Cloris Leachman joined the cast of the beloved television series "Lassie" in 1957, taking on the role of Ruth Martin. However, her time on the show was short-lived, ending after half a season due to contract disputes, marking an interesting chapter in her career.
1958: Cloris Leachman Exits "Lassie"
Cloris Leachman's time on "Lassie" came to an end in 1958. She was replaced by June Lockhart, marking a transition in the show's cast.
1960: Cloris Leachman Stars in "Checkmate" Episode "The Mask of Vengeance"
Cloris Leachman's talent for intrigue and suspense was on display in 1960 when she starred in the "Checkmate" episode "The Mask of Vengeance." Her performance added depth and complexity to the episode's narrative.
1961: Cloris Leachman Appears in "Gunsmoke"
In 1961, Cloris Leachman made her mark on the iconic television Western "Gunsmoke." Her performance showcased her ability to hold her own in the male-dominated genre.
1962: Cloris Leachman Appears on "Wagon Train" and "Laramie"
Cloris Leachman made her mark on two popular Western series in 1962, appearing in episodes of both "Wagon Train" and "Laramie." Her performances showcased her versatility and her ability to seamlessly transition between different roles in the genre.
1962: Cloris Leachman Guest Stars on "Wagon Train"
Cloris Leachman's career continued to flourish in 1962 with a guest-starring role on the popular Western series "Wagon Train." Her performance added depth and intrigue to the episode.
1963: George Englund Directs "The Ugly American"
George Englund, Cloris Leachman's then-husband, directed Marlon Brando in the film "The Ugly American" in 1963.
1966: Cloris Leachman Guest Stars on "Perry Mason"
Cloris Leachman's career continued to flourish in 1966 with a guest-starring role on the acclaimed legal drama "Perry Mason." Her performance added intrigue to the episode and showcased her ability to hold her own alongside seasoned actors.
1969: Cloris Leachman Appears in "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid"
Cloris Leachman graced the screen in the classic Western "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" in 1969. Her presence in the film added to its star-studded cast.
1969: Cloris Leachman Reunites with Paul Newman in "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid"
Cloris Leachman shared the screen once again with Paul Newman in the iconic 1969 Western "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid." This reunion showcased their on-screen chemistry and added to the film's stellar cast.
1970: Cloris Leachman Appears on "That Girl"
In a testament to her comedic talent, Cloris Leachman appeared on the sitcom "That Girl" in late 1970. Her presence added to the episode's humor and showcased her ability to seamlessly integrate into different comedic styles.
1970: Cloris Leachman Begins Role on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show"
Cloris Leachman's career reached new heights in 1970 when she joined the cast of "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." Her portrayal of Phyllis Lindstrom would earn her critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards.
1971: Cloris Leachman's Oscar-Winning Performance in "The Last Picture Show"
Cloris Leachman delivered an unforgettable performance as Ruth Popper in the 1971 drama "The Last Picture Show." Her portrayal of the neglected wife earned her critical acclaim, including the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, solidifying her place as a powerful dramatic force in Hollywood.
1971: Cloris Leachman Wins Academy Award for "The Last Picture Show"
Cloris Leachman's performance in "The Last Picture Show" in 1971 earned her the prestigious Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her portrayal of the neglected wife, Ruth Popper, showcased her incredible acting range and cemented her place as a respected talent in Hollywood.
1973: Cloris Leachman Appears in "A Brand New Life"
Cloris Leachman showcased her versatility as an actress in 1973, appearing in the television film "A Brand New Life." Her performance highlighted her ability to tackle dramatic roles with the same skill and nuance as her comedic work.
1974: Release of "Young Frankenstein"
Cloris Leachman appeared in Mel Brooks' comedic horror satire "Young Frankenstein" in 1974. Her memorable performance as Frau Blücher, whose name alone startled horses, became iconic.
1974: Cloris Leachman Appears in "Young Frankenstein"
Cloris Leachman joined Mel Brooks's ensemble cast in 1974, taking on the role of Frau Blücher in the comedic masterpiece "Young Frankenstein." Her comedic timing and memorable performance added to the film's enduring appeal.
1975: Cloris Leachman Stars in "Phyllis"
Building on her success in "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," Cloris Leachman took on the lead role in the spinoff series "Phyllis" in 1975. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe Award, solidifying her status as a television icon.
1975: Premiere of "Phyllis"
In 1975, Cloris Leachman's spinoff series, "Phyllis," premiered. The show focused on her character, Phyllis Lindstrom, from "The Mary Tyler Moore Show."
1977: "Phyllis" Concludes
After a successful run, "Phyllis" concluded in 1977. Cloris Leachman's portrayal of the titular character left a lasting impact on television audiences and further cemented her legacy as a comedic legend.
1977: Guest appearance on "The Muppet Show"
Cloris Leachman made a guest appearance on "The Muppet Show" in 1977, showcasing her comedic talents to a wider audience.
1977: End of "Phyllis"
Cloris Leachman's spinoff series, "Phyllis," concluded after two seasons in 1977.
1977: Cloris Leachman Stars in "High Anxiety"
Continuing her collaboration with Mel Brooks, Cloris Leachman took on the role of Nurse Diesel in the 1977 comedy "High Anxiety." Her performance showcased her versatility as an actress and her ability to seamlessly transition between dramatic and comedic roles.
1977: Release of "High Anxiety"
In 1977, Cloris Leachman continued her collaboration with Mel Brooks, starring as the villainous nurse Charlotte Diesel in the thriller spoof "High Anxiety."
1978: Awarded the Sarah Siddons Award
In 1978, Cloris Leachman's talent was recognized in the theater world when she received the prestigious Sarah Siddons Award for her work in Chicago.
1979: Release of "The North Avenue Irregulars"
Cloris Leachman appeared in Disney's "The North Avenue Irregulars" in 1979, portraying the character Claire.
1979: Divorce from George Englund
Cloris Leachman and George Englund divorced in 1979 after 26 years of marriage.
1981: Cloris Leachman Appears in "History of the World, Part I"
Cloris Leachman once again lent her talent to a Mel Brooks production in 1981, appearing as Madame Defarge in "History of the World, Part I." Her presence in the film added to its comedic brilliance and showcased her enduring appeal as a comedic actress.
1981: Cloris Leachman Stars in "Yesterday"
In 1981, Cloris Leachman showcased her dramatic range in the film "Yesterday." Her performance demonstrated her ability to tackle complex and emotionally resonant roles.
1981: Release of "History of the World: Part I"
Cloris Leachman joined the cast of Mel Brooks' epic satire "History of the World: Part I" in 1981, playing the role of Madame Defarge.
1983: Cloris Leachman Stars in "The Woman Who Willed a Miracle"
In 1983, Cloris Leachman starred in the ABC Afterschool Special production "The Woman Who Willed a Miracle." This heartwarming production allowed Leachman to showcase her talent for connecting with audiences of all ages.
1986: Death of son, Bryan Englund
Cloris Leachman experienced the loss of her son, Bryan Englund, in 1986.
1986: Joins the cast of "The Facts of Life"
Cloris Leachman joined the cast of the popular sitcom "The Facts of Life" in 1986, taking on the role of Beverly Ann Stickle, Edna Garrett's sister.
1986: Cloris Leachman Appears in "Castle in the Sky"
Cloris Leachman lent her voice to the animated film "Castle in the Sky" in 1986. Her distinctive voice added depth and emotion to the characters she brought to life.
1986: Voice role in "Castle in the Sky"
Cloris Leachman provided the voice for the character Dola in Hayao Miyazaki's animated film "Castle in the Sky" in 1986.
1987: Voice role in "Hansel and Gretel" and hosting "Schoolhouse Rock!"
Cloris Leachman lent her voice to the Disney's Cannon Tales production of "Hansel and Gretel" in 1987, portraying the evil witch Griselda. The same year, she hosted the VHS releases of the educational series "Schoolhouse Rock!"
1989: Stars in "The Nutt House"
In 1989, Cloris Leachman starred in Mel Brooks' short-lived sitcom "The Nutt House," taking on dual roles as Mrs. Frick and Mrs. Nutt.
1990: Guest appearance on "Ferris Bueller"
Cloris Leachman guest-starred as Ferris and Jeannie's grandmother in an episode of the television series "Ferris Bueller" which aired in November 1990.
1991: Demi Moore's Vanity Fair Cover
Demi Moore appeared nude and pregnant on the cover of Vanity Fair magazine in 1991, a photograph that became widely recognized and, in some circles, controversial.
1993: Appears in "The Beverly Hillbillies"
Cloris Leachman appeared as Granny in the film adaptation of "The Beverly Hillbillies," directed by Penelope Spheeris, in 1993.
1997: Appears on Cover of Alternative Medicine Digest
Cloris Leachman, a dedicated vegetarian and animal rights activist, appeared on the cover of Alternative Medicine Digest in 1997, posing nude with fruit painted on her body, parodying Demi Moore's famous 1991 Vanity Fair cover.
1998: Cloris Leachman Joins the Cast of "Promised Land"
Cloris Leachman's enduring talent continued to shine in 1998 when she joined the cast of the television show "Promised Land." Her presence in the show added depth and experience to the ensemble.
1999: Stars in "Thanks"
Cloris Leachman landed a starring role in the sitcom "Thanks" in 1999, playing a character in a 17th-century Puritan family. The show, however, was canceled after six episodes.
2/1961: Cloris Leachman Appears on "The Donna Reed Show"
Cloris Leachman graced the screen in February 1961 with a guest appearance on "The Donna Reed Show." Her presence added to the episode's humor and showcased her comedic timing.
2000: Cloris Leachman Begins Role in "Malcolm in the Middle"
Cloris Leachman's comedic genius was on full display in 2000 when she began her recurring role as Grandma Ida in "Malcolm in the Middle." Her hilarious performance endeared her to a new generation of viewers.
2002: Cloris Leachman Returns for "The Twilight Zone" Revival
Cloris Leachman embraced the opportunity to revisit her earlier work, appearing in the 2002 revival of "The Twilight Zone." This return showcased her enduring talent and her connection to the iconic series.
2003: Cloris Leachman Returns to "The Twilight Zone"
Cloris Leachman revisited her roots in science fiction with a return to "The Twilight Zone" in 2003. Her appearance in an episode of the rebooted series paid homage to her earlier work in the genre.
2003: Cloris Leachman Appears in "It's Still a Good Life"
In 2003, Cloris Leachman further cemented her connection to "The Twilight Zone" legacy with an appearance in "It's Still a Good Life," a sequel episode in the revived series. Her return delighted fans of the original series and showcased her enduring talent.
2004: Cloris Leachman Appears in "Spanglish"
Cloris Leachman's career continued to thrive in the 21st century with roles in films like "Spanglish" in 2004. Her performance showcased her ability to adapt to contemporary stories and characters.
2004: Appears in "Spanglish" and "The Longest Yard"
In 2004, Cloris Leachman showcased her versatility, appearing in both the comedy-drama "Spanglish" alongside Adam Sandler and the remake of "The Longest Yard," also starring Sandler.
2005: Guest appearance on "Two and a Half Men"
Cloris Leachman guest-starred as Charlie Harper's neighbor, Norma, in an episode of the popular sitcom "Two and a Half Men" in 2005.
2005: Cloris Leachman Appears in "Mrs. Harris"
Cloris Leachman's talent for portraying complex characters was on display in the 2005 film "Mrs. Harris." Her performance added depth and nuance to the film's narrative.
2005: George Englund Publishes Memoir on Marlon Brando
George Englund published a memoir titled "Marlon Brando: The Way It's Never Been Done Before" in 2005, detailing his friendship with the iconic actor.
May 14, 2006: Receives Honorary Doctorate
Cloris Leachman received an honorary doctorate in fine arts from Drake University on May 14, 2006, recognizing her significant contributions to the entertainment industry.
2006: Appears in "Beerfest" and "Scary Movie 4"
Cloris Leachman appeared in the comedies "Beerfest" and "Scary Movie 4" in 2006, often portraying unconventional and humorous elderly characters.
2006: Wins Emmy Award for "Malcolm in the Middle"
Cloris Leachman's performance as Grandma Ida on the Fox sitcom "Malcolm in the Middle" earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series in 2006.
2006: Nominated for Emmy and SAG Award for "Mrs. Harris"
Cloris Leachman's performance in the HBO special "Mrs. Harris" alongside Ben Kingsley and Annette Bening garnered her nominations for a Primetime Emmy Award and a Screen Actors Guild Award in 2006.
2007: Considered for Broadway revival of "Young Frankenstein"
Cloris Leachman was considered to reprise her role as Frau Blücher in the 2007 Broadway revival of "Young Frankenstein." Though initially passed over, her success on "Dancing with the Stars" led to renewed interest, but the production closed before she could return.
2008: Competes on "Dancing with the Stars"
In 2008, at the age of 82, Cloris Leachman became the oldest contestant on the dance competition show "Dancing with the Stars," demonstrating her enduring energy and spirit.
March 2009: Publication of "Cloris: My Autobiography"
In March 2009, Cloris Leachman's autobiography, "Cloris: My Autobiography," was published. The book, co-authored with her ex-husband George Englund, became a bestseller.
2009: PETA Advertisement
Cloris Leachman further demonstrated her commitment to animal rights by posing in a dress made of lettuce for a 2009 PETA advertisement.
2009: Cloris Leachman Publishes Memoir, "Cloris: My Autobiography"
In 2009, Cloris Leachman shared her life story with the world through her memoir, "Cloris: My Autobiography." The book offered insights into her remarkable career and personal life, leaving behind a legacy for generations to cherish.
2010: Joins the cast of "Raising Hope"
Cloris Leachman joined the cast of the Fox sitcom "Raising Hope" in 2010, playing the role of Maw Maw, the family's eccentric matriarch.
2010: Cloris Leachman Joins the Cast of "Raising Hope"
Cloris Leachman's comedic timing and talent were once again on display in 2010 when she joined the cast of the sitcom "Raising Hope." Her role as Maw Maw showcased her ability to bring laughter to audiences of all ages.
2013: Stars in PETA Ad Campaign
Cloris Leachman continued to advocate for animal welfare, starring in a comedic PETA ad campaign in 2013 promoting spaying and neutering pets.
2014: Cloris Leachman's Role on "Raising Hope" Concludes
After a memorable run, Cloris Leachman's role on "Raising Hope" concluded in 2014. Her portrayal of Maw Maw left a lasting impression on viewers and added to her impressive body of work.
2014: Nominated for Emmy Award for "Raising Hope"
Cloris Leachman's performance as Maw Maw in "Raising Hope" continued to garner acclaim, earning her an Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series in 2014.
2018: Appears in "I Can Only Imagine"
Cloris Leachman appeared in the Christian film "I Can Only Imagine" in 2018.
2019: Appears in "American Gods"
In 2019, Cloris Leachman appeared in the first season of the Showtime series "American Gods," portraying Zorya Vechernyaya, one of the ancient Slavic deities.
January 27, 2021: Death of Cloris Leachman
Cloris Leachman passed away on January 27, 2021. Her passing marked the end of an era for the entertainment industry, leaving behind a legacy of iconic roles and unforgettable performances.
February 7, 2021: Cloris Leachman's Cremation
Following her death on January 27, 2021, Cloris Leachman's body was cremated on February 7, 2021.
2021: Final film role in "Not To Forget"
Cloris Leachman's final film role was in the 2021 movie "Not To Forget," directed by Valerio Zanoli. The film, meant to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease, featured an ensemble cast that included several Academy Award winners.
8/1955: Cloris Leachman Appears in "Kiss Me Deadly"
In August 1955, Cloris Leachman made her mark on the film noir genre with a role in "Kiss Me Deadly." Notably, she was pregnant during filming, adding a layer of dedication to her performance.