Ruth Attaway

Ruth Attaway (June 28, 1910 – September 21, 1987) was a distinguished American actress known for her dynamic performances in both film and theater. Born in Greenville, Mississippi, she was the daughter of physician W.A. Attaway, PhD, and had two siblings, Florence and William. Attaway graduated from the University of Illinois, where she specialized in sociology.

Her theatrical journey began in 1936 with her Broadway debut in the Pulitzer Prize-winning play, You Can't Take It with You. In 1945, she became the inaugural director of the New York Players Guild, a pioneering black repertory theater company. Attaway showcased her talent on stage in productions such as Mrs. Patterson at the National Theater from 1954 to 1955 and was affiliated with the Repertory Society of Lincoln Center between 1964 and 1967.

Attaway made her film debut in 1953, portraying Moll in The President's Lady alongside stars Susan Hayward and Charlton Heston. Her filmography includes notable roles such as Philomena in The Young Don't Cry (1957), Serena Robbins in Porgy and Bess (1959), and Louise in the acclaimed film Being There (1979). She was also part of the cast in an unaired pilot for the show Three's Company in 1954 and played Delia in the television movie The Bermuda Depths (1978).

Married to Allan Morrison, an editor for Ebony magazine, until his passing in 1968, Ruth Attaway passed away in 1987 due to injuries sustained in a fire. She was 77 years old.