14 Facts About Natalie Schafer

Natalie Schafer was an American actress, best known today for her role as Lovey Howell on the sitcom Gilligan's Island.

Natalie Schafer was born on November 5,1900, in Red Bank, New Jersey.

Natalie Schafer began her career as an actress on Broadway before moving to Los Angeles in 1941 to work in films.

Natalie Schafer appeared on Broadway in 17 plays between 1927 and 1959, often playing supporting roles.

Natalie Schafer was seen in a revival of Six Characters in Search of an Author, directed by Sir Tyrone Guthrie.

Natalie Schafer appeared in stock and regional productions, including the off-Broadway production The Killing of Sister George with Claire Trevor in the title role.

Natalie Schafer guest-starred in TV productions beginning in the 1950s, such as an episode of Sherlock Holmes, and in "The Charm School" episode of I Love Lucy, both in 1954.

Natalie Schafer reprised her role in three made-for-television spin-off films after the show ended: Rescue from Gilligan's Island, The Castaways on Gilligan's Island, and The Harlem Globetrotters on Gilligan's Island.

Natalie Schafer was married to actor Louis Calhern from 1933 to 1942; they had no children.

Natalie Schafer was reportedly a breast cancer survivor, which she withheld from her fans and friends.

At the time of her death, a family spokesman stated that Natalie Schafer's survivors included her longtime companion Maurice Hill.

Natalie Schafer died of liver cancer in her Beverly Hills home at the age of 90.

Natalie Schafer was cremated; her ashes were scattered into the Pacific Ocean, off San Pedro's Point Fermin Light.

Natalie Schafer bequeathed between $1.5 million and $2 million to the Lillian Booth Actors Home to renovate the hospital's outpatient wing, which was renamed the Natalie Schafer Wing in 1993.