Betty White, America’s sweetheart, is celebrating her 98th birthday today — January 17, 2020.
The beloved comedic actor is known for so many wonderful television appearances over decades of work. But perhaps she is best known for her role as the ditzy blond Rose on the hit sit-com “Golden Girls.”
White, who is part Greek, called herself a “classic American mutt,” with ancestry from Greece, England, Wales and Denmark.
White was born in Oak Park, Illinois on January 17, 1922. Her mother’s maiden last name was Cachikis (Christine Tess-Cachikis) and her maternal grandfather Nicholas immigrated to North America from Greece.
Right: Betty White (middle) with her mother Christine and grandfather Nicholas.
White has starred as a guest on many game shows such as Match Game and The $25,000 Pyramid. She also gained fame for her appearances on Boston Legal, Mama’s Family and Saturday Night Live.
In a career that spans 80 years, White has received numerous awards — including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She won 7 Emmy Awards during her TV career. She has also won 3 Screen Actors Guild awards, 3 American Comedy awards and a Grammy.
White was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1995. As of 2013, she also holds the Guinness World Records for the longest television career for a female entertainer. White is also a longtime animal rights activist.
We love Betty (who doesn’t?) and wish her ΧΡΟΝΙΑ ΠΟΛΛΑ!
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3 comments
Happy birthday Betty. We, the Greeks, are proud of your Greek roots.
Greg, what was the answer to your question of what island did Betty White’s grandfather immigrate from? I know the origin of family names which end in -akis originate from Crete but I don’t know if the same is true if it ends in -ikis. Was the answer hidden? I couldn’t spot it.
Belated Birthday, Betty White! Congratulations on your 98th birthday! You look MARVELOUS!!! My birthday is also in January, the 24th but you’re 25 years over my years! Also – I am from Chicago, IL (born in Sandwich, IL!) & have loved you for all the time I’ve seen you! A wonderful lady – blessings to Miss Betty White! You’re the BEST!