Judy Farrell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Judy Farrell
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![]() Farrell at Knott's Berry Farm in 1966
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Born |
Judy Hayden
May 11, 1938 Quapaw, Oklahoma, U.S.
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Died | April 2, 2023 | (aged 84)
Occupation | Actress, writer |
Years active | 1961–2006 |
Spouse(s) |
Joe Bratcher
(m. 1985) |
Children | 2 |
Judy Farrell was an American actress and writer. She was born on May 11, 1938, and passed away on April 2, 2023. Many people remember her best for playing Nurse Able on the popular TV show M*A*S*H. Besides acting, she also wrote many episodes for the TV show Port Charles.
Contents
Early Life and Acting Career
Growing Up in Oklahoma
Judy Hayden was born and grew up in a town called Quapaw, Oklahoma. She loved theater and went to Oklahoma State University. There, she earned a degree in fine arts, focusing on theater.
Starting Her Career
In 1961, Judy was studying for her master's degree at UCLA. This is where she met another actor named Mike Farrell. Before becoming a full-time actress, Judy worked as a teacher. She taught English and drama at Laguna Beach High School in Laguna Beach, California.
Marriage and Family Life
In August 1963, Judy married Mike Farrell. They had two children together, a daughter named Erin and a son named Michael. Judy and Mike even performed together at the Laguna Playhouse during the 1960s. They later divorced in the early 1980s. Judy then married Joe Bratcher in 1985.
Her Role on M*A*S*H
Judy Farrell is most famous for her role as Nurse Able on the TV comedy series M*A*S*H. This show was about a team of doctors and nurses during the Korean War. She also had small roles in several other TV shows.
Interestingly, Judy and Mike Farrell's real-life marriage was even mentioned in an episode of M*A*S*H. In an episode called "The Colonel's Horse," Mike's character, B.J. Hunnicutt, said his wife was from Judy's hometown of Quapaw. He also said his daughter in the show was named Erin, just like his real-life daughter.
Later Career as a Writer
After her acting roles, Judy Farrell became a writer. She wrote 13 episodes for the TV soap opera Port Charles. This showed her talent not just in front of the camera, but behind the scenes too.
Later Years and Passing
Judy Farrell passed away on April 2, 2023, at the age of 84. She died after an illness. She will be remembered for her contributions to television as both an actress and a writer.