Barbara Whiting


Barbara Whiting Smith was an American actress and singer.

Early life

Whiting was born in Los Angeles, California, the daughter of music manager Eleanor Youngblood Whiting and composer Richard A. Whiting. Her older sister was singer Margaret Whiting.

Career

Her movie career began with the 1945 film, Junior Miss, a movie based on her popular radio show by the same name. This was followed by nine other starring roles until she married Gail Smith and retired.
On television, she co-starred with her sister, Margaret in Those Whiting Girls on CBS. The program debuted July 4, 1955, as a summer replacement for I Love Lucy.
Whiting's radio career was what she was most known for during her lifetime. In 1948 she began to star in CBS's Junior Miss. It was one of the most successful radio shows of the time especially with younger audiences.
On February 8, 1960, Barbara was honored with a star at 6443 Hollywood Boulevard, in the television section of the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Personal life and death

On May 7, 1959, Whiting married Gail Smith, an advertising professional. It was her first marriage and his second. They had a son, Richard Whiting Smith.
Barbara was a "longtime volunteer" at St. Joseph Mercy Oakland Hospital, Pontiac, Michigan. She lived a quiet life, dedicated to her son Richard.
Whiting died of cancer, in Pontiac, Michigan, aged 73, June 9, 2004. She was survived by her sister and a son.

Filmography

Select film credits

Junior Miss - Fuffy AdamsCentennial Summer - Susanna RogersHome, Sweet Homicide - Jo-Ella HolbrookCarnival in Costa Rica - Maria MolinaCity Across the River - Annie KaneI Can Get It for You Wholesale - Ellen CooperBeware, My Lovely - Ruth WilliamsRainbow 'Round My Shoulder - Suzy MilliganDangerous When Wet - Suzie HigginsParis Follies of 1956 - Barbara Walton

Select television appearances

The Ed Sullivan ShowStarlight Theatre The Bigelow Theatre Dragnet The Public Defender - Elly Black / Torry

Select radio credits

Hollywood Star TimeMeet Corliss ArcherThe Screen Guild TheaterThe Great GildersleeveFamily TheaterThe Bing Crosby ShowEscapeThe Railroad HourSuspenseBroadway Is My BeatOn Stage