Eddi-Rue McClanahan was a celebrated American actress and comedian. She rose to international fame for her role as the vivacious Southern belle Blanche Devereaux on the hit sitcom 'The Golden Girls.' Her career spanned over six decades, including notable roles on television shows like 'Maude' and 'Mama's Family.' McClanahan was also a dedicated animal welfare advocate and a founding member of the organization Actors and Others for Animals.