Barbara Cason (November 15, 1928 – June 18, 1990) was an American character actress.

Barbara Cason
Born(1928-11-15)November 15, 1928
DiedJune 18, 1990(1990-06-18) (aged 61)
Occupation(s)TV and film actress
Years active1967–1990

Life and career

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Cason was born in Memphis, Tennessee, the daughter of Helen Louise (Phebus) and Charles Carroll Cason. She began her career appearing in theatre and on local television in Memphis during the 1950s, where she notably co-founded and ran the Front St. Theatre.

She moved to New York City in 1967, becoming active in theatre there both on and off Broadway through 1973. She most notably starred in the original critically acclaimed production of Noël Coward's Oh, Coward! in 1972–73. She appeared in such cult films as The Honeymoon Killers (1969), Cold Turkey (1971) and Exorcist II: The Heretic (1977) as well as the summer replacement variety television series Comedy Tonight. She was also in the movie House of Dark Shadows (1970) as Mrs. Johnson, when Clarice Blackburn couldn't do the role.

After the early 1970s, Cason's career became centered in Los Angeles, appearing mostly within television up until her death. She is probably best known for her roles as Cloris Phebus on Carter Country (1977–1979) and Ruth Shandling on It's Garry Shandling's Show (1986–1990).

She was married to actor Dennis Patrick from 1970 until her death. She died in Los Angeles, California, aged 61, after a heart attack.

Filmography

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Year Title Role Notes
1970 The Honeymoon Killers Evelyn Long
1970 House of Dark Shadows Mrs. Johnson
1971 Cold Turkey Letitia Hornsby
1977 Exorcist II: The Heretic Mrs. Phalor
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