Barbara Hale was a well-known American actress, who was best known for her role as Della Street in the television series Perry Mason. With her exceptional talent and graceful presence, she made a name for herself in the entertainment industry.
Even though Barbara Hale is no longer among us, her legacy continues to live on through her work. Her journey from a model to a famous actress is inspiring for many. If you are curious to know more about her life and success story, we have included the details in the post below.
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Early Life
Barbara Hale was born on 18th April 1922, in DeKalb, Illinois, USA, to parents Wilma Colvin and Luther Ezra Hale. She grew up with her sister, Juanita in a family with Irish and Scottish roots.
Growing up, Barbara had a quiet childhood in a small town. Her family later moved to Rockford, Illinois, where she attended Rockford High School. She then pursued her passion for art at the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts, where she planned to become an artist. To support her education, Hale began modelling in Chicago, which eventually marked the start of her performing career.
Beginning of Career
Barbara’s professional career started as a model. After gaining attention, she started appearing in advertisements and magazines. With her beauty and charm, she caught the attention of Hollywood scouts, which led her to sign a contract with RKO Radio Pictures.
In 1943, Barbara made her film debut with Gildersleeve’s Bad Day. Though it was a minor role, it marked the beginning of her acting journey. Thereafter, Barbara appeared in several supporting roles, including films like Higher and Higher and West of the Pecos.
Shot to Fame
Barbara Hale’s career reached new heights when she was cast as Della Street in the CBS television series Perry Mason. Premiering in 1957, the show became a massive hit and ran for nine seasons.
Della Street was not just a secretary; she played a key role in solving the mysteries. Barbara’s portrayal of Della earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. In 1959, her performance won her the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. Even after the series ended in 1966, Barbara reprised her role in more than 30 Perry Mason television movies between 1985 and 1995.
Relationship
Barbara Hale married actor Bill Williams in 1946. He was known for his roles in action and Western films. The couple shared a strong bond throughout their marriage, which lasted until Williams died in 1992. Together, they had three children, including Juanita, Jody, and William Katt.
Major Source of Income and Net Worth
Barbara Hale’s primary source of income was her acting career. She earned a steady income from her film roles. But her work in Perry Mason brought her massive financial success. The television series and movies not only made her a household name but also provided her with financial stability. At the time of her passing in 2017, Barbara Hale’s net worth was estimated at around $3 million.
