Carole Cook, a well-known actress, died on Wednesday, January 11, of heart failure at the age of 98. She was well-known for her role as Grandma Helen in the 1984 comedy picture Sixteen Candles. On Facebook, comedian Scott Nevins paid homage to her by posting a photo of himself seated alongside her. Nevins writes in the caption:
“I was pleased to have worked with her and happy that she let me gush about how important “42nd Street” was to me as a youngster seeing my first Broadway performance. Carole, please rest now.”
J William McDaniel, a musician, also shared his sorrow on Facebook, stating that Cook was a force of nature, a skilled and remarkable performer, and a friend. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to present and accompany her at the O’Neill in 2019. The message went on to say,
“We worked together so many times throughout the years, and I’m glad for each and every one of them. I am a lot better person for having known her. Rest up, diva. “I adore you.”
Cook’s stepson Christopher, his wife Becky, sister Regina, and nieces and nephews survive her. Donations may be made in her honor to the Entertainment Community Fund.
On Twitter, users are paying homage to Carole Cook.
Carole Cook rose to prominence as a result of her faultless performances in films and television series. When word of her death spread, Twitter was inundated with tributes.
The late Carole Cook, who just died at 98, was a legend for many things, not least of which THIS: pic.twitter.com/rcsKSNbG7O
— Matthew Rettenmund (@mattrett) January 12, 2023
A few years ago, I was invited to a small birthday gathering for the great Carole Cook. She spent the evening telling us stories about being in 42nd Street, touring in Hello,Dolly!, and having Lucy as her best friend. Not everyone knew her, but she was a star! RIP. pic.twitter.com/MXX2BrjkkB
— Dan Jinks (@JinksDan) January 12, 2023
Carole Cook was well-known for her roles in films, television series, and plays.
The actress, also known as Mildred Frances Cook, graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Greek theater. She had previously worked in theater and began her theatrical debut in 1956 as Mrs. Peacham in the production of The Threepenny Opera.
She went on to appear in many additional plays, including Hello, Dolly!, Stop the World – I Want to Get Off, Father’s Day, Romantic Comedy, 42nd Street, The Supporting Cast, Steel Magnolias, Dress Up, The Lion in Winter, Ladies in Retirement, Radio Gals, 70, Girls 70, and Follies. Carole Cook made her television debut as Mrs. Parker/Nurse on U.S. Marshal from 1959 until 1960. She is particularly well-known for her performances in 18 episodes of the CBS comedy The Lucy Show. From October 1, 1962, through March 11, 1968, the program broadcast 156 episodes over six seasons.
Cook went on to appear in a number of other TV programs, including Kentucky Jones, Daniel Boone, Sarge, Maude, Emergency!, Charlie’s Angels, Knight Rider, The Love Boat, Strip Mall, Grey’s Anatomy, and others.
Carole’s cinematic career began in 1963 with the comedy picture Palm Springs Weekend, in which she portrayed Naomi Yates. She then starred as Bessie Limpet in The Incredible Mr. Limpet, a 1964 comedy film. The picture, directed by Arthur Lubin, garnered favorable reviews and starred Don Knotts, Jack Weston, Andrew Duggan, Larry Keating, and others. She appeared in films such as The Gauntlet, American Gigolo, Summer Lovers, Grandview, United States of America, Fast Money, Lost & Found, Home on the Range, A Very Sordid Wedding, and Waiting in the Wings: Still Waiting.
