Beatrice “Bea” Arthur (born May 13 1922) is an American comedian, actress and singer. In an ongoing career spanning six decades, Arthur is perhaps best remembered for her trademark role as the title character, Maude Findlay, on the 1970s sitcom Maude, and also for playing Dorothy Zbornak on the 1980s sitcom The Golden Girls.

Biography

Early life

Arthur was born Bernice Frankel to Philip and Rebecca Frankel in New York City on May 13, 1922 Her family soon moved to Maryland where her parents operated a women's clothing shop. She attended the now-defunct Blackstone College in Blackstone, Virginia where she was active in drama productions.