Rue McClanahan was born in Healdton, Oklahoma, and graduated cum laude in theater from the University of Tulsa. Most noted for her role as Blanche on "The Golden Girls, "McClanahan has had a number of well-known starring roles in television and on Broadway. In addition to her work as an actress, McClanahan speaks regularly for breast cancer awareness and prevention of cruelty toward animals. She lives in New York City with her husband, Morrow Wilson, and her cat, Bianca.