Lucille Désirée Ball
- Born:
- August 6, 1911, Jamestown, New York, USA
- Died:
- April 26, 1989, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Actress, Comedian, Television Producer, Studio Executive
Early Life and Education
- Lucille Ball was raised in Celoron, New York, and later in Detroit, Michigan.
- She briefly attended the John Murray Anderson School for the Dramatic Arts in New York City.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began her career as a model and chorus girl in New York City in the 1930s.
- Signed a contract with RKO Pictures in 1933, appearing in various supporting roles.
- Gained prominence in the 1940s in films and on radio, showcasing her comedic talents.
- Starred in the groundbreaking television sitcom I Love Lucy (1951-1957) with her then-husband Desi Arnaz, which became one of the most popular and influential shows in television history.
- Established Desilu Productions with Desi Arnaz, which produced numerous successful television shows including The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour, The Untouchables, and Star Trek.
- Continued her television career with The Lucy Show (1962-1968) and Here's Lucy (1968-1974).
- Became the first woman to run a major television studio, Desilu Productions.
Notable Works
Lucille Ball left a significant mark on both film and television. While opinions vary on the best Lucille Ball movies movie lists often include films like Stage Door and Yours, Mine and Ours, her television work remains her most enduring contribution.
Filmography (Selected)
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1937 | Stage Door | Judy Canfield |
| 1942 | The Big Street | Gloria Lyons |
| 1946 | Ziegfeld Follies | Performer (Various Skits) |
| 1954 | The Long, Long Trailer | Tacy Bolton |
| 1968 | Yours, Mine and Ours | Helen North |
Television (Selected)
| Years | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1951-1957 | I Love Lucy | Lucy Ricardo |
| 1962-1968 | The Lucy Show | Lucy Carmichael |
| 1968-1974 | Here's Lucy | Lucy Carter |
Legacy and Impact
Lucille Ball is considered one of the most influential figures in the history of American television. Her innovative comedic style, coupled with her business acumen, transformed the landscape of the entertainment industry. Her portrayal of Lucy Ricardo remains iconic and continues to entertain audiences worldwide.