Betty Harford, the beloved actress whose career spanned more than half a century and whose performances brought warmth, humor, and unforgettable moments to screens both large and small, has passed away peacefully at the age of 98.
Harford, widely celebrated for her iconic role as the Carrington family’s loyal and outspoken cook, Mrs. Gunnerson, in the 1980s prime-time soap opera Dynasty, as well as for her portrayal of the efficient and devoted Mrs. Nottingham on The Paper Chase, leaves behind a legacy cherished by fans, colleagues, and generations of viewers who admired her remarkable talent and enduring charm.
Harford died on November 2, 2025, in Santa Barbara, California, surrounded by family.
Her close friend Wendy Mitchell shared the news on Facebook, writing, “Betty’s son contacted me this morning to let me know that Betty Harford Naszody passed away peacefully with family at her side at noon on November 2, 2025.
She was 98.” Tributes from fans and fellow actors quickly poured in, celebrating her career, her kindness, and the unforgettable characters she brought to life on screen.
Born in New York City in 1927, Harford developed an early passion for the performing arts.
She began her career in theater, honing her craft in a variety of stage productions and working with legendary figures in the performing arts community, including John Houseman.
Her transition from stage to screen allowed her to reach wider audiences, and she quickly became known for her versatility, intelligence, and ability to convey both strength and warmth in her roles.
Harford achieved widespread recognition in the 1980s with her role as Mrs. Gunnerson on Dynasty, a show that defined prime-time soap operas for an entire generation.
As the Carrington family’s cook, she became a fan favorite for her sharp wit, memorable one-liners, and warmhearted nature.
Audiences loved her signature moments, including the recurring joke about her “legendary lamb stew for Blake,” which became a cult favorite among fans.
Her performance was both comedic and heartfelt, offering a sense of realism and humanity amid the glamorous, high-drama world of the Carringtons.
Harford returned for the 1991 reunion miniseries, proving that her presence and charm remained timeless.
Social media tributes from admirers highlighted her enduring appeal, with one fan writing, “Farewell to the wonderful Betty Harford, the foul-mouthed cook of the Carringtons (the legendary lamb stew for Blake) in the nine seasons of Dynasty.
American actress, she stood out in film as the sister of Natalie Wood’s character.” Before her Dynasty fame, Harford had established herself as a skilled character actress on television.
On The Paper Chase (1978–1979), she portrayed Mrs. Nottingham, the efficient and dedicated secretary to Professor Kingsfield, played by John Houseman. In this role, she conveyed intelligence, patience, and subtle humor, quickly endearing herself to audiences who appreciated her professionalism and depth.
Over the decades, Harford made guest appearances on iconic series such as The Twilight Zone, Gunsmoke, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Dr. Kildare, and The Big Valley, demonstrating an ability to adapt to vastly different genres and characters.
Harford’s talents were not limited to television. She also enjoyed a successful career in film, appearing alongside Hollywood legends in projects such as The Wild and the Innocent (1959), Spartacus (1960), and Inside Daisy Clover (1965), in which she played Gloria, the sister of Natalie Wood’s character.
In these roles, she brought intelligence, depth, and subtle humor, often holding her own against major stars and delivering performances that were both nuanced and memorable.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Harford lived a rich personal life filled with family, love, and creativity.
She was married twice, first to California sculptor Oliver Andrews, who passed away in 1978, and later to Sándor (Alex) de Naszody, a leading actor with the Hungarian National State Theater, who died in 1996.
She is survived by her son Chris and her grandsons, who will continue to honor her legacy. Those who knew her personally recall a woman of warmth, intelligence, and generosity, someone who treated colleagues, friends, and family with kindness and integrity.
Throughout her decades-long career, Betty Harford demonstrated remarkable adaptability and commitment to her craft.
From stage to screen, from drama to comedy, she brought a unique blend of skill, empathy, and charisma to every role she played.
Her characters were never one-dimensional; they reflected the complexities of real life while providing audiences with humor, warmth, and inspiration.
Fans of Dynasty remember not only her humor and memorable lines but also the humanity she brought to the soap opera genre, often serving as the emotional center amid the show’s high-stakes drama.
The Paper Chase audience appreciated her quiet strength and intelligence, seeing in Mrs. Nottingham a reflection of dedication and steadfastness.
Across all her roles, Harford consistently combined talent with authenticity, making her one of the most respected and beloved actresses of her generation.
Harford’s legacy extends beyond her performances. She represents a time in Hollywood when character actors could leave an indelible mark on audiences and the industry, regardless of whether they were leading stars.
Her dedication to her craft, her ability to make every role memorable, and the generosity she displayed toward colleagues and fans alike ensure that her memory will endure.
Even in her later years, Harford remained connected to the performing arts community, attending events, supporting younger actors, and sharing her experiences and wisdom with those who sought guidance.
She continued to be celebrated for her contributions to television, film, and theater, and her influence can still be seen in the many actors she inspired with her commitment to authenticity and excellence.
The passing of Betty Harford marks the end of an era for classic television, the golden age of soap operas, and the timeless shows that captured the hearts of viewers around the world.
Her warmth, intelligence, humor, and humanity left an unforgettable impression on all who encountered her work.
Fans will continue to remember her for the laughter she inspired, the emotional moments she elevated, and the grace and dignity she brought to every screen she appeared on.
Betty Harford’s life and career are a testament to the power of talent, persistence, and authenticity. She showed that character, charm, and dedication are as important as fame or accolades.
In remembering her, audiences honor not just the roles she played, but the spirit, generosity, and professionalism she embodied throughout her extraordinary life.
Her legacy will continue to inspire actors, delight audiences, and remind everyone that great performances are remembered not only for the stories they tell but also for the heart and soul behind them.
Betty Harford’s story is one of triumph, talent, and timeless impact—a true icon whose performances will continue to live on, both in the reruns of her beloved shows and in the hearts of those who admired her for decades.
Her passing is a profound loss, but her life and career remain a shining example of artistry, perseverance, and the enduring magic of television and film.
Betty Harford, the beloved actress whose career spanned more than half a century and whose performances brought warmth, humor, and unforgettable moments to screens both large and small, has passed away peacefully at the age of 98.
Harford, widely celebrated for her iconic role as the Carrington family’s loyal and outspoken cook, Mrs. Gunnerson, in the 1980s prime-time soap opera Dynasty, as well as for her portrayal of the efficient and devoted Mrs. Nottingham on The Paper Chase, leaves behind a legacy cherished by fans, colleagues, and generations of viewers who admired her remarkable talent and enduring charm.
Harford died on November 2, 2025, in Santa Barbara, California, surrounded by family.
Her close friend Wendy Mitchell shared the news on Facebook, writing, “Betty’s son contacted me this morning to let me know that Betty Harford Naszody passed away peacefully with family at her side at noon on November 2, 2025.
She was 98.” Tributes from fans and fellow actors quickly poured in, celebrating her career, her kindness, and the unforgettable characters she brought to life on screen.
Born in New York City in 1927, Harford developed an early passion for the performing arts.
She began her career in theater, honing her craft in a variety of stage productions and working with legendary figures in the performing arts community, including John Houseman.
Her transition from stage to screen allowed her to reach wider audiences, and she quickly became known for her versatility, intelligence, and ability to convey both strength and warmth in her roles.
Harford achieved widespread recognition in the 1980s with her role as Mrs. Gunnerson on Dynasty, a show that defined prime-time soap operas for an entire generation.
As the Carrington family’s cook, she became a fan favorite for her sharp wit, memorable one-liners, and warmhearted nature.
Audiences loved her signature moments, including the recurring joke about her “legendary lamb stew for Blake,” which became a cult favorite among fans.
Her performance was both comedic and heartfelt, offering a sense of realism and humanity amid the glamorous, high-drama world of the Carringtons.
Harford returned for the 1991 reunion miniseries, proving that her presence and charm remained timeless.
Social media tributes from admirers highlighted her enduring appeal, with one fan writing, “Farewell to the wonderful Betty Harford, the foul-mouthed cook of the Carringtons (the legendary lamb stew for Blake) in the nine seasons of Dynasty.
American actress, she stood out in film as the sister of Natalie Wood’s character.” Before her Dynasty fame, Harford had established herself as a skilled character actress on television.
On The Paper Chase (1978–1979), she portrayed Mrs. Nottingham, the efficient and dedicated secretary to Professor Kingsfield, played by John Houseman. In this role, she conveyed intelligence, patience, and subtle humor, quickly endearing herself to audiences who appreciated her professionalism and depth.
Over the decades, Harford made guest appearances on iconic series such as The Twilight Zone, Gunsmoke, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Dr. Kildare, and The Big Valley, demonstrating an ability to adapt to vastly different genres and characters.
Harford’s talents were not limited to television. She also enjoyed a successful career in film, appearing alongside Hollywood legends in projects such as The Wild and the Innocent (1959), Spartacus (1960), and Inside Daisy Clover (1965), in which she played Gloria, the sister of Natalie Wood’s character.
In these roles, she brought intelligence, depth, and subtle humor, often holding her own against major stars and delivering performances that were both nuanced and memorable.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Harford lived a rich personal life filled with family, love, and creativity.
She was married twice, first to California sculptor Oliver Andrews, who passed away in 1978, and later to Sándor (Alex) de Naszody, a leading actor with the Hungarian National State Theater, who died in 1996.
She is survived by her son Chris and her grandsons, who will continue to honor her legacy. Those who knew her personally recall a woman of warmth, intelligence, and generosity, someone who treated colleagues, friends, and family with kindness and integrity.
Throughout her decades-long career, Betty Harford demonstrated remarkable adaptability and commitment to her craft.
From stage to screen, from drama to comedy, she brought a unique blend of skill, empathy, and charisma to every role she played.
Her characters were never one-dimensional; they reflected the complexities of real life while providing audiences with humor, warmth, and inspiration.
Fans of Dynasty remember not only her humor and memorable lines but also the humanity she brought to the soap opera genre, often serving as the emotional center amid the show’s high-stakes drama.
The Paper Chase audience appreciated her quiet strength and intelligence, seeing in Mrs. Nottingham a reflection of dedication and steadfastness.
Across all her roles, Harford consistently combined talent with authenticity, making her one of the most respected and beloved actresses of her generation.
Harford’s legacy extends beyond her performances. She represents a time in Hollywood when character actors could leave an indelible mark on audiences and the industry, regardless of whether they were leading stars.
Her dedication to her craft, her ability to make every role memorable, and the generosity she displayed toward colleagues and fans alike ensure that her memory will endure.
Even in her later years, Harford remained connected to the performing arts community, attending events, supporting younger actors, and sharing her experiences and wisdom with those who sought guidance.
She continued to be celebrated for her contributions to television, film, and theater, and her influence can still be seen in the many actors she inspired with her commitment to authenticity and excellence.
The passing of Betty Harford marks the end of an era for classic television, the golden age of soap operas, and the timeless shows that captured the hearts of viewers around the world.
Her warmth, intelligence, humor, and humanity left an unforgettable impression on all who encountered her work.
Fans will continue to remember her for the laughter she inspired, the emotional moments she elevated, and the grace and dignity she brought to every screen she appeared on.
Betty Harford’s life and career are a testament to the power of talent, persistence, and authenticity. She showed that character, charm, and dedication are as important as fame or accolades.
In remembering her, audiences honor not just the roles she played, but the spirit, generosity, and professionalism she embodied throughout her extraordinary life.
Her legacy will continue to inspire actors, delight audiences, and remind everyone that great performances are remembered not only for the stories they tell but also for the heart and soul behind them.
Betty Harford’s story is one of triumph, talent, and timeless impact—a true icon whose performances will continue to live on, both in the reruns of her beloved shows and in the hearts of those who admired her for decades.
Her passing is a profound loss, but her life and career remain a shining example of artistry, perseverance, and the enduring magic of television and film.
