Gretchen Wyler

American thespian and social activist Gretchen Wyler enjoyed three distinct careers during her life: one as a Broadway performer, another as a television actress, and a third as a crusader for animal-rights causes. Born February 16, 1922, Wyler first sought out a career on-stage, and sustained her stardom on the Great White Way for an astonishing five decades. Memorable productions in which she starred include Damn Yankees, Bye Bye Birdie, and Guys and Dolls. On television, Wyler made frequent guest-starring appearances on such programs as Dallas, Friends, and Judging Amy. A dispiriting glimpse of animal abuse at a New York City shelter in 1966 prompted Wyler's interest in animal rights activism; she subsequently became the first female board member of the ASPCA and formed The Ark Trust. Wyler died of complications from breast cancer on May 27, 2007, at age 85.