Estelle Getty: Sophia of The Golden Girls Dies at 84

Estelle Getty was an American actress who played the wisecracking Sophia Petrillo on The Golden Girls. Born Estelle Scher on July 25, 1923, in New York City, she was a stage performer for decades before finding fame.

She won an Emmy and a Golden Globe for the role on The Golden Girls (1985-1992) and later played the character on The Golden Palace. She was only a year older than Bea Arthur, who played her daughter. Getty also appeared in the Mannequin films and Stop! Or My Mom Will Shoot with Sylvester Stallone.

She was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia in her last years. Getty died at her home in Los Angeles on July 22, 2008, three days before her 85th birthday.

Achievements: Emmy Award and Golden Globe for The Golden Girls.

Birth: July 25, 1923 - New York City.

Profession: Actress.

Interesting Facts: She was younger than the actress who played her daughter.