Barbara Whiting Smith (May 19, 1931 – June 9, 2004) was an American actress and singer.

Early life

Whiting was born in Los Angeles, California, the daughter of music manager Eleanor Youngblood Whiting and composer Richard A. Whiting. Her older sister was singer Margaret Whiting.

Career

Her movie career began with the 1945 film, Junior Miss, a movie based on her popular radio show by the same name.

Whiting's radio career was what she was most known for during her lifetime. In 1948 she began to star in CBS's Junior Miss. It was one of the most successful radio shows of the time especially with younger audiences.

On February 8, 1960, Barbara was honored with a star at 6443 Hollywood Boulevard, in the television section of the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Personal life and death

On May 7, 1959, Whiting married Gail Smith, an advertising professional. It was her first marriage and his second. They had a son, Richard Whiting Smith. (with sister Margaret Whiting) - Barbara Walton

Select television appearances

  • The Ed Sullivan Show
  • Starlight Theatre (1950)
  • The Bigelow Theatre (1951)
  • Dragnet (1954)
  • The Public Defender (1954) - Elly Black / Torry
  • Those Whiting Girls - Desilu Studios (1955-1957) (TV serial)
  • Fireside Theatre (1955) - Marian
  • The Jimmy Durante Show (1955) - Herself - Suzy the Hatcheck Girl
  • TV Reader's Digest (1956) - Birdie
  • The Tennessee Ernie Ford Show (1956) - Herself - Singer
  • Men of Annapolis (1957) - Willie (Wilhelmina)

Select radio credits

  • Hollywood Star Time
  • Meet Corliss Archer
  • The Screen Guild Theater
  • The Great Gildersleeve
  • Family Theater
  • The Bing Crosby Show
  • Escape
  • The Railroad Hour
  • Suspense
  • Broadway Is My Beat
  • On Stage
  • Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar

References

  • Short Biography