Bea Arthur, born as Bernice Frankel on May 13, 1922 in Brooklyn, New York, was an eminent American actress and comedian whose career spanned over six decades. She kick-started her career in off-Broadway productions before gaining recognition in the early 50s. Her breakthrough role came in the Broadway musical Mame in 1966, where she portrayed the character Vera Charles, earning her a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. Arthur's success on stage paved the way for her transition to television, where she left an indelible mark with her iconic roles. Best known for portraying strong female characters, Arthur starred in the CBS sitcom Maude, a spin-off of the popular TV show All in the Family. Her portrayal of Maude Findlay, a feminist living in the suburbs of New York, earned her an Emmy Award in 1977. After seven successful seasons of Maude, Arthur further cemented her legacy in television history by starring in the NBC sitcom The Golden Girls. Her portrayal of Dorothy Zbornak, a sharp-tongued, no-nonsense substitute teacher, garnered her another Emmy Award in 1988. Off-screen, Bea Arthur was just as tenacious and admirable as the characters she played. A dedicated animal rights activist, she used her celebrity status to advocate for animal welfare. In 2002, she was honored with The PETA Humanitarian Award for her tireless work. Bea Arthur passed away on April 25, 2009, leaving behind a rich legacy of stage and screen performances that resonate with audiences even today. Her robust personality, sharp wit, and unwavering dedication to her craft made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.