Old Yeller to Spider Baby: An Interview with Beverly Washburn

Everybody loves Beverly Washburn.  

Tony Dow called Beverly “one of the sweetest people I know.”  Elvis Presley referred to her as “a fine actress.”  Lou Costello attributed the success of the sole dramatic performance of his career to Beverly.  Bing Crosby sent her Christmas cards every year until his passing.  Jack Benny and Loretta Young each considered Beverly a dear friend.  

There’s something special about a woman who earns such respect and admiration from her colleagues.  Throughout the course of her nearly lifelong acting career, Beverly Washburn has done just that.

Beverly Washburn

You probably know Beverly Washburn best as Lizabeth Searcy in the 1957 Disney classic, Old Yeller, but Beverly’s film and television credits boast countless memorable performances.  This Emmy nominated actress has starred opposite the likes of such Classic Hollywood legends as Bing Crosby, Jane Wyman, Jimmy Stewart, Alan Ladd, Loretta Young, Lon Chaney, Jr., Jean Arthur, Jack Benny, Lou Costello, and Barbara Stanwyck.  She’s worked with the premiere directors of the Golden Age, including Frank Capra, George Stevens, and Cecil B. deMille.  Beverly’s rare ability to cry on cue naturally was put to good use from the start of her career, and contributed to her reputation as one of the best kid actors of her generation.

Beverly’s performances as a young adult, including an appearance on Star Trek, and starring roles in Jack Hill’s productions of Pit Stop (1969) and the 1967 cult classic horror film, Spider Baby, demonstrated that Beverly’s talent was versatile and real.  Given this immense talent, it’s no surprise that Beverly Washburn remains a working actress today.

Last month I had the opportunity to interview Beverly at her lovely home.  To speak with Beverly about her impressive career—to hear her stories and experiences in person—was phenomenal.  What particularly struck me about meeting Beverly Washburn is that she is indeed as sweet as everyone says she is.  The ever-articulate Paul Petersen summed up Beverly’s kind soul best.  As Paul shared, no matter how busy life was at the height of their respective acting careers:

“Beverly always found the time to cut through all the nonsense and, usually in a whisper, ask how I was ‘really doing.’  To this very day my friend Beverly retains this knack.  There is an importance to her that deserves respect.  She is careful with her friends, and everlastingly faithful.  It is one thing to be a good performer, but quite another to be a good person.”

One of the secrets to Beverly’s boundless kindness and lengthy career is her attitude.  Beverly understands the importance of loving what you do.  As she shared with me during our interview:

“I think in order to be good at anything you have to love what you do no matter what it is.  And so, if you are anxious to go to work and you’re fulfilled, that’s kind of what life is all about, just enjoying what you do.”

My Interview with Beverly Washburn

Listen to Episode 82 of Vanguard of Hollywood to experience Beverly Washburn’s kind heart, sweetness, and inspiring gratitude for her spectacular career.

And for more insights from Beverly, be sure to purchase your own copy of her page-turning autobiography, Reel Tears Take Two: The Beverly Washburn Story.