This article will delve into the “Donna Douglas Net Worth” and the “Donna Douglas bio”. This iconic lady excelled as an American actress, author, and singer. Her talents spanned various creative domains.
She achieved significant recognition for her portrayal of Elly May Clampett. This was in the TV show The Beverly Hillbillies.
Donna Douglas Biography
Donna Douglas is an American actress and singer. She gained fame as Elly May Clampett. This was her role on The Beverly Hillbillies from 1962 to 1971.
After her acting stint, she delved into real estate, gospel singing, and motivational speaking. She also authored books for both kids and adults.
Early Life – Donna Douglas Age
The Actress, Singer, and Author born was on September 26, 1932, in Pride, Louisiana, United States. His parents’ names are Emmett Ratcliff Sr. and Elma Smith.
Childhood & Education
During her education at St. Gerard Catholic High School, Douglas actively participated in softball. She also participated in basketball.
She also held the distinction of being part of the school’s inaugural graduating class. In 1957, she achieved the titles of Miss Baton Rouge and Miss New Orleans.
Personal Life – Donna Douglas Husband
Roland Bourgeois Jr. was Douglas’ first husband. They got married in 1949 and had one child together. The pair separated in 1954.
Later, in 1971, she wed Robert M. Leeds, who directed her in “The Beverly Hillbillies.” Unfortunately, their marriage ended in divorce in 1980.
Donna Douglas Elvis Presley Relationship
In the realm of iconic encounters, Donna Douglas and Elvis Presley’s connection stands as a captivating tale of shared depths beyond the realm of mere infatuation. Their paths intertwined during the filming of Frankie and Johnny, fostering a profound bond rooted in mutual respect and intellectual stimulation.
While rumors of a romantic affair swirled, their relationship transcended conventional notions of attraction. They found solace in each other’s company, engaging in deep conversations about spirituality, philosophy, and the complexities of life. Elvis, drawn to Donna’s genuine nature and unwavering faith, discovered a kindred spirit who offered a respite from the pressures of his fame.
Career
Douglas relocated to New York City to pursue her entertainment career. She started as a toothpaste ad model. She appeared on NBC’s The Perry Como Show in 1957. She was also featured on NBC’s The Steve Allen Show in 1959.
Her TV appearances led to her “Miss By-line” title on CBS’ The Ed Sullivan Show. In 1958, she appeared in The Phil Silvers Show episode as Doris Bourgeois. Hal B. Wallis noticed her and cast her in Career (1959) and Li’l Abner (1959).
She took roles in Lover Come Back (1961) and The Twilight Zone’s “Eye of the Beholder” (1960). She appeared in various TV shows like Checkmate, U.S. Marshal, and Thriller.
The Beverly Hillbillies
Despite her activity in the 1960s, Donna Douglas was relatively obscure. She was selected for The Beverly Hillbillies (1962-1971) role from 500 candidates. Typecast by the role, she focused on her gospel singing career.
In the 1966 Hillbillies break, Douglas starred with Elvis Presley in Frankie and Johnny (1966). She gained popularity, but her film career didn’t progress.
After the original cast members’ passing, Douglas joined a 1981 reunion movie. She appeared on TV shows and became a pop culture figure. In 1992, she attended Buddy Ebsen’s celebration.
In 1993, they reunited on The Jerry Springer Show and in a CBS special. In 2010, Mattel added her Elly May Clampett doll. It was part of the Classic TV Collection with other iconic characters.
After Acting Career
After The Beverly Hillbillies, Douglas acquired her real estate license. Yet, she returned to showbiz and embraced diverse ventures.
Gospel singing and motivational speaking defined her path. She reached out to churches, youth groups, schools, and colleges.
Her charity included advocating Christian children’s homes in the U.S. South. Conventions and records punctuated her path, including gospel albums and minor country music releases.
She penned a children’s book, “Donna’s Critters and Kids,” intertwining Bible stories with animals. In 2011, she published “Miss Donna’s Mulberry Acres Farm.”
In 2013, she released the cookbook “Southern Favorites with a Taste of Hollywood.” It featured recipes from fellow celebrities and a “Hollywood Social Graces” manners section.
Donna Douglas Movies and TV Shows, Children, Height, Cause of Death
| Real Name/Full Name | Doris Ione Smith |
| Nick Name | Donna Douglas, Elly May Clampett |
| Gender | Female |
| Date Of Birth | September 26, 1932 |
| Age | 82 years old |
| Birth Place | Pride, Louisiana, United States |
| Parents Name | Father – Emmett Ratcliff Sr. Mother – Elma Smith |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (1.6m) |
| Weight | NA |
| Hair Color | NA |
| Eye Color | NA |
| Siblings | NA |
| Languages | English |
| Religion | Christian |
| Nationality | American |
| Zodiac | Libra |
| Girlfriend | NA |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband Name | Roland John Bourgeois Jr. (m. 1951; div. 1954), Robert M. Leeds (m. 1971; div. 1980) |
| Children Name | One child |
| Profession | Actress, Singer, Author, Comedienne |
| Net Worth | $500 thousand |
| Date of Death | January 1, 2015 |
As A Public Figure – Social Media Influencer
| Social Media Site | Linked Destination |
| Click Here |
Donna Douglas Net Worth
At the time of her passing, Donna Douglas’s net worth was $500 thousand. Her portrayal of Elly May Clampett on The Beverly Hillbillies remains her most renowned role.
Awards & Achievement
Donna Douglas achieved several honors throughout her career. In 1963, she was crowned Miss Golden Globe (Television). In 2004, the Actress, Singer, and Author was honored with the TV Land Favorite Fish Out of Water award.
This recognition was attributed to her role in “The Beverly Hillbillies” (1962). This award was shared with Max Baer, Jr., Buddy Ebsen, and Irene Ryan. After her time on “The Beverly Hillbillies,” Douglas explored different paths.
She obtained a real estate license following the show’s conclusion. Beyond real estate, she delved into a music career, although it was relatively brief. Despite its brevity, she accomplished notable feats.
Douglas contributed to the soundtracks of three of her acting projects, including “The Beverly Hillbillies.” Additionally, she released four gospel albums.
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Donna Douglas Lawsuits
In 1993, Douglas and Curt Wilson sued Disney, Goldberg, and Midler. They claimed “Sister Act” copied their book “A Nun in the Closet,” which turned into a 1985 screenplay.
They claimed over 100 similarities. They submitted the screenplay to Disney, Goldberg, and Midler. They rejected a $1M settlement in 1994. They continued the case, but the judge favored Disney.
In 2011, Douglas sued Mattel and CBS, asserting they used her likeness for a Barbie doll. They settled in 2011, terms undisclosed. CBS and Mattel argued her approval wasn’t necessary due to character rights. Satisfaction was expressed over the settlement’s private terms.
Donna Douglas Cause of Death
At the age of 82, Douglas passed away from pancreatic cancer. This happened on January 1, 2015, at Baton Rouge General Hospital. She was laid to rest in Bluff Creek Cemetery, located in East Feliciana Parish, Louisiana.
FAQ
What is Donna Douglas’s Real Name?
Her Real Name is Doris Ione Smith.
What is Donna Douglas’s net worth?
Her net worth was approximately $500 thousand at the time of death.
What is Donna Douglas’s date of death?
She died on January 1, 2015.