Barbara Rush, an esteemed actress celebrated for her grace and talent, has passed away at the venerable age of 97. Known for captivating roles in shows and films like âPeyton Placeâ and âIt Came From Outer Space,â her departure marks the end of an era in classic Hollywood cinema.
Her daughter, Claudia Cowan, confirmed that Barbara passed away peacefully, surrounded by the serene ambiance of her home. Claudia shared with Fox News, âIt was peaceful when my wonderful mother died this evening at 5:28.â She added a poignant and touching detail, âI was with her this morning and know she was waiting for me to get home safely to transition.â The timing of Barbaraâs passing on Easter, a holiday she cherished deeply, brought an extra layer of significance to the event for her family. âItâs fitting she chose to leave on Easter as it was one of her favorite holidays,â Claudia remarked, noting how the day will forever hold a deeper meaning for them.

Barbara Rushâs light shone brightly through her life and career, which spanned several glorious decades. Her daughterâs heartfelt birthday tribute just months before her passing painted a vivid picture of a woman cherished not only for her professional accomplishments but for the warmth and wisdom she exuded. Claudia beautifully articulated her motherâs enduring spirit, writing, âShe shines like the sun and glows like the moon. Her age doesnât change the sparkle in her eyes, the kindness in her heart, or the knowledge in her soul.â This capture of Barbara as â97 years youngâ speaks to the vitality she maintained throughout her life.
Barbara Rushâs journey in Hollywood began on the stage, revealing her passion for the performing arts early on. However, it was her breakthrough role in the 1953 science fiction horror masterpiece, âIt Came From Outer Space,â that marked her ascent to stardom. The performance earned her the Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer â Female; a testament to her emerging talent and charisma in the film industry.

Her illustrious career led her to share the screen with notable actors of the time, including Marlon Brando, Dean Martin, and the legendary Frank Sinatra. Collaborating with Sinatra in âRobin and the Seven Hoodsâ (1964) and âCome Blow Your Hornâ (1963) further showcased her versatility and ability to hold her own in an industry filled with larger-than-life personalities.
Rushâs talents were not confined to the silver screen. She made a significant impact on television, leaving a lasting impression through her roles on popular soap operas. Most memorably, she portrayed Marsha Russell in âPeyton Placeâ with a decorum and poignancy that resonated with audiences for many seasons. Her artistry also extended to NBCâs âFlamingo Road,â where she portrayed Eudora Weldon, further cementing her place in television history.

Barbaraâs personal life, much like her career, was a tapestry rich with experiences and lessons. She married three times: first to actor Jeffrey Hunter in 1950, then to Warren Cowan in 1959, and finally to sculptor Jim Gruzalski in 1970. These unions, though they ended in divorce, marked chapters in a life lived fully and with passion.
In her later years, Barbara chose a quieter life, away from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Her daughter Claudia ensured that these years were filled with love and tender moments, frequently visiting to celebrate their bond. In a touching Instagram post, Claudia shared, âTime with my mom is extra special these days⌠As her time runs out, Iâm going to see her as often as I can to show her how much I love and appreciate her.â

