Barbara Bel Geddes

Barbara Bel Geddes (October 31, 1922 – August 8, 2005) was a multifaceted American actress, artist, and author of children's literature. She gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of matriarch Eleanor "Miss Ellie" Ewing in the iconic television drama series Dallas. Bel Geddes also made her mark on Broadway, playing the character Maggie in the original production of Cat On A Hot Tin Roof, and had a notable role in Alfred Hitchcock's classic film Vertigo (1958). Throughout her career, she received numerous awards and nominations highlighting her exceptional talent in the performing arts.

In 1990, Bel Geddes transitioned away from her acting career, retiring from Dallas and choosing to focus on her passion for fine art at her residence in Northeast Harbor, Maine. In addition to her visual artistry, she authored two children's books and developed a line of greeting cards, showcasing her creativity in various forms. She experienced two marriages during her lifetime and was the proud mother of two daughters. Tragically, Barbara Bel Geddes passed away from lung cancer on August 8, 2005, leaving behind a legacy as a talented actress and artist who touched many lives through her work.