Golden Girl hospitalized, Castro event canceled
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
A Golden Girls tribute event planned for the Castro Saturday, November 14 has been canceled due to the hospitalization of actress Rue McClanahan, who played Blanche Deveraux on the campy NBC sitcom.
In a statement McClanahan apologized for having to miss her San Francisco appearance but said she had to be a no show on doctor’s orders.
“My darlings, I’m just devastated that I am going to have to miss my own tribute at the Castro Theatre,” stated McClanahan from her hospital room, according to the e-mailed statement. “Unfortunately, my doctor has laid down the law, and I’m currently having some maintenance on the old ticker. Trust me, I’d much rather be in San Francisco having fun and being adored by all of you.”
McClanahan, 75, is one of two surviving cast members from the beloved television series. Betty White, 87, who was the ditzy Rose Nylund on Golden Girls, is still acting.
Beatrice “Bea” Arthur, who played Dorothy Zbornak on the show, died in April at the age of 87. Estelle Getty, who played Arthur’s mother Sophia Petrillo on the show, died in 2008 three days shy of her 85th birthday.
Event producer Marc Huestis announced the sudden cancellation Wednesday, November 4. A VIP reception with the aging actress and Del Shores, who was to interview McClanahan on stage, had nearly sold out while tickets for the event were selling briskly, according to Huestis.
“I understand that many folk were excited to attend this tribute, and deeply and sincerely apologize for the inconvenience this unfortunate situation has caused,” Huestis stated. “Our collective hearts go out to Ms. McClanahan for a speedy recovery.”
Huestis said he hopes to reschedule the event. For now refunds can be secured through ticket vendors, and refund information is available at (415) 863-0611.
