Soap opera fans and television enthusiasts around the world are mourning the loss of a true TV icon whose career spanned decades and whose performances left an indelible mark on the small screen.
Betty Harford, the beloved actress whose charm, wit, and presence captivated audiences for nearly a decade as the loyal and unforgettable cook of the Carrington family in Dynasty, and who also portrayed the sharp and efficient Mrs. Nottingham in The Paper Chase, has passed away at the remarkable age of 98. Her passing on November 2, 2025, in Santa Barbara, California, marks the end of a life devoted to the performing arts, leaving a legacy that will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
A Familiar Face to Millions
Harford’s death was confirmed by her close friend Wendy Mitchell in a heartfelt post to The Hollywood Reporter and on social media, expressing both sorrow and fond remembrance. Mitchell shared that Harford passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, emphasizing the serene way in which she left this world after a life filled with creativity, performance, and dedication. “Betty’s son contacted me this morning,” Mitchell wrote, “and Betty Harford Naszody passed away peacefully with family at her side, noon on November 2, 2025. She was 98.”
For millions of viewers during the 1980s, Betty Harford became a recognizable and beloved figure thanks to her portrayal of Mrs. Gunnerson in Dynasty. The character, a warm-hearted yet foul-mouthed cook who managed the Carrington household with humor, authority, and a kind of no-nonsense wisdom, resonated deeply with audiences. Her cooking, especially the legendary lamb stew prepared for Blake Carrington, became a running gag and a touchstone for fans, cementing her as a cult favorite. Harford returned for the 1991 reunion miniseries, reprising her role with the same charm that had endeared her to fans years earlier.
Social media erupted with tributes to Harford in the hours following news of her death. Admirers from around the world took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to express their grief and celebrate her career. One devoted fan wrote: “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.” These tributes reflect the deep affection her audience had for her, a testament to her ability to make every role memorable.
Early Career and Television Legacy
Long before her fame on Dynasty, Betty Harford was already making her mark on television. She appeared as Mrs. Nottingham, the efficient and loyal secretary to Professor Kingsfield, portrayed by John Houseman, in The Paper Chase (1978–79). Even in this early role, her ability to blend professionalism with subtle warmth was evident, setting the stage for the rich career that would follow.
Harford’s television career spanned multiple decades and included appearances in some of the most iconic series of the 20th century. She graced screens in The Twilight Zone, Gunsmoke, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Dr. Kildare, and The Big Valley, among others. Each role, no matter how brief, showcased her ability to inhabit characters fully, whether bringing humor, tension, or gravitas to the scene. Her work reflected a versatility that allowed her to move seamlessly between drama, suspense, and comedy—a rare skill admired by both audiences and industry peers.
Starred Alongside Hollywood Legends
Betty Harford also made her mark on the big screen, where she held her own alongside some of Hollywood’s most revered actors. Her early film roles included The Wild and the Innocent (1959) and Spartacus (1960), two productions that remain significant in cinema history. In 1965, she appeared in Inside Daisy Clover as Gloria, the sister of Natalie Wood’s character—a role that highlighted her dramatic abilities and cemented her as a talented and reliable supporting actress.
Born in New York City in 1927, Harford discovered her love for acting at a young age. She began her career in theater, where she honed her craft on stage before transitioning to film and television. Her work with renowned producer John Houseman in multiple stage productions demonstrated not only her talent but also her commitment to the craft, a dedication that would carry through her entire life. Even as she aged, she remained active in the performing arts community, mentoring younger actors and advocating for the importance of live theater.
Personal Life
Off-screen, Harford led a rich and full life. 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. Harford’s personal life reflected her deep connections to art and creativity, and she nurtured her family alongside her career. She is survived by her son, Chris, and her grandsons, who remember her not only as a talented actress but also as a loving and devoted mother and grandmother.
A Legacy Remembered
Betty Harford’s passing represents the end of an era for fans of classic television and soap operas. Her warmth, wit, and enduring talent brought life to every scene she inhabited. Whether through the humor of Mrs. Gunnerson’s lamb stew, the professionalism of Mrs. Nottingham, or her numerous television and film appearances, she created a body of work that continues to resonate with audiences.
In the hearts of viewers, she will remain forever present: the stern yet caring cook, the loyal secretary, the versatile supporting actress who could move seamlessly from laughter to tension. Her performances remind us of the golden era of television, when character actors like Harford enriched the stories and left audiences with lasting memories. As reruns continue to air and new generations discover her work, Betty Harford’s legacy will live on, a shining example of dedication, talent, and timeless charm.
In remembering her life, fans and colleagues alike celebrate a woman who dedicated nearly a century to art, laughter, and storytelling—a woman whose presence on screen was as comforting as it was unforgettable. Betty Harford may have passed, but the joy and elegance she brought to television and film will remain eternal, preserved in both celluloid and memory.