A loyal viewership of the heart-warming TV series “The Waltons” has always loved and still loves grandma and grandpa Walton!
Ellen Corby and Will Geer, known for their roles as grandma and grandpa on “The Waltons,” remained irreplaceable despite facing health issues. The pair, however, concealed their true selves due to societal pressures.
Corby, initially married to Frank Corby, later had a long-term relationship with a female companion, while Geer had a male partner. They maintained secrecy about their sexuality to safeguard their careers.
Corby, born in 1911, expressed profound grief over her mother’s death, stating, “A great deal of me disappeared with her.” Meanwhile, Nancy, a former librarian, highlighted the public’s likely shock if the actors’ true selves were revealed, saying, “A loyal viewership of ‘The Waltons’ would have had a collective seizure.”
Despite challenges, Corby continued to cherish her role as Grandma Walton, referring to the child actors as her own grandchildren. She feared losing the role due to health setbacks but was relieved when the producers welcomed her back.
Geer, known for his authenticity and warmth, faced struggles during the anti-communist era and later wed Herta Ware, with whom he had children. However, his former partner, Harry Hay, remained significant in his life.
Hay, a gay rights activist, founded the first modern gay-rights organization, the Mattachine Society. Geer’s colleagues spoke highly of him, describing him as a nurturing figure on set, akin to a real grandfather.
Hay, a gay rights activist, founded the first modern gay-rights organization, the Mattachine Society. Geer’s colleagues spoke highly of him, describing him as a nurturing figure on set, akin to a real grandfather.
Geer’s genuine personality left a lasting impact on those around him, with co-stars fondly recalling his warmth and hospitality. Despite societal challenges, Corby and Geer’s contributions to “The Waltons” and their authentic selves endure as part of their legacy.
