Television has lost one of its quiet legends. Betty Harford — the sharp, warm, and unforgettable actress who charmed audiences on Dynasty and The Paper Chase — passed away peacefully at 98 on November 2, 2025, in Santa Barbara, California, surrounded by family.
Harford became a household name as Mrs. Gunnerson, the Carrington family’s outspoken, loyal, and hilariously blunt cook on Dynasty (1981–1989). Her quick wit and unforgettable one-liners made her a fan favorite, even in a cast full of soap opera royalty. She even returned for the 1991 reunion miniseries, proving her place in fans’ hearts was timeless. Social media lit up with tributes: “Farewell to Betty Harford, the Carringtons’ fiery cook. Her lamb stew lives forever,” wrote one fan.
But Harford’s talent went far beyond the mansion’s kitchen. She impressed as Mrs. Nottingham in The Paper Chase, balancing John Houseman’s commanding Professor Kingsfield with her own sharp, no-nonsense charm. Her early career included appearances in The Twilight Zone, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Gunsmoke, Dr. Kildare, and The Big Valley, proving her versatility across decades and genres.
On the big screen, Harford worked alongside legends. She appeared in The Wild and the Innocent (1959) with Audie Murphy, Spartacus (1960) under Stanley Kubrick, and Inside Daisy Clover (1965), holding her own even in small but memorable roles. Each performance reflected her depth — natural, grounded, and always compelling.
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