Ruth Warrick was a renowned American singer, actress and political activist, who is best remembered for her role as Phoebe Tyler Wallingford on the long-running soap opera All My Children. She played the character from 1970 until her death in 2005, making her one of the most enduring and beloved figures in daytime television. But how did Ruth Warrick die, and what was her life like before she became a soap opera icon?
Early Life and Career
Ruth Warrick was born on June 29, 1916, in Saint Joseph, Missouri, to Frederick Roswell Warrick and Annie Louise Warrick, née Scott. She developed an interest in acting and writing at an early age, and won a contest to be Miss Jubilesta, Missouri’s paid ambassador to New York City, by writing an essay on “Prevention and Cure of Tuberculosis”. There she began her career as a radio singer, and met her first husband Erik Rolf.
Warrick’s first big break came when she was hired by a young Orson Welles for his groundbreaking film Citizen Kane (1941), in which she played Emily Monroe Norton, the niece of the President of the United States and Kane’s first wife. Welles chose her for the role because he wanted an actress who was a lady, not just one who could play one. She made several screen tests with Welles, and was regarded as perfect for the role.
Warrick went on to appear in several other films, such as The Corsican Brothers (1941), Journey into Fear (1943), Song of the South (1946), Daisy Kenyon (1947), and One Too Many (1950). She also starred in several Broadway plays, such as Irene (1973) and Take Me Along (1959). However, by the late 1940s, her film roles became less frequent and notable, and she turned her attention to television.
Soap Opera Stardom
In the 1950s, Warrick befriended soap opera executives Irna Phillips and Agnes Nixon, who offered her roles in their shows. Warrick became a cast member on The Guiding Light (1953-1954) and As the World Turns (1956-1960), playing strong-willed and complex women. She also appeared in many live television dramas, such as Kraft Theatre and Studio One.
However, it was her role as Phoebe Tyler Wallingford on All My Children that made her a household name. She joined the show from its inception in 1970, and played the character until her death in 2005. Phoebe was the wealthy and snobbish matriarch of Pine Valley, who often meddled in the lives of her family and friends. She was also known for her outrageous outfits, witty remarks, and multiple marriages.
Warrick received two Emmy nominations for her portrayal of Phoebe, and won a lifetime achievement award in 2004. She also wrote an autobiography titled The Confessions of Phoebe Tyler in 1980, in which she shared her personal and professional experiences. She was loved by millions of fans, who admired her talent, grace, and longevity.
Final Years and Death
Warrick remained active and involved in various causes until the end of her life. She was a vocal supporter of women’s rights, civil rights, environmental issues, and world peace. She also participated in several reunions and tributes for Citizen Kane and All My Children.
Warrick died on January 15, 2005, at her home in New York City. The cause of death was complications from pneumonia. She was 88 years old. She is survived by three children from her first marriage: Jon Rolf, Karen Elizabeth Rolf Harris, and Timothy Rolf. She was also married five more times: to Carl Neubert (1950-1952), Robert McNamara (1953-1960), Frank Freda (1972-1973), Jarvis Cushing (1975-1976), and Hugh Marlowe (1961-1963).
Warrick’s death was mourned by her colleagues and fans alike. Her final appearance on All My Children aired on January 5th, 2005, just ten days before she passed away. The show paid tribute to her by dedicating an episode to her memory on February 2nd, 2005. Her character’s death was later written into the storyline in April 2005.
Ruth Warrick was a legend of film and television, who left behind a legacy of excellence and elegance. She will always be remembered as the first Mrs. Citizen Kane and the unforgettable Phoebe Tyler Wallingford.
