Sandra Bean
| Sandra Bean | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born |
Sandra Helen Bean September 7, 1918 Stafford, United Kingdom |
| Died |
October 21, 2015 (aged 97) Chicago, Ill |
| Cause of death | Old Age |
| Occupation | Actress/Radio Personality |
| Associates | Martha Chaplin |
Sandra Bean is best known as one-half of the long-running radio show Sandra & Martha's Home Kitchen Theater Talking Show.
Bio
Birth & Arrival in America
From a young age, Sandra loved performing in front of crowds. Growing up in a small English town, she quickly gained fame locally for her hilarious antics. At 16, she moved to America with her family to escape the increasing dangers of the wars in Europe. They finally settled in Los Angeles, where Sandra was amazed by the entertainment industry. Soon, she left school and began working for various studios.
Voice Acting
In 1938, Sandra was "discovered" by a producer of the popular new radio program The Midnight Sleuth and was asked if she wanted to do a voice. She accepted and appeared on the show's 15th episode, which eventually marked the beginning of her career. After the episode aired, Sandra started getting more work for other radio shows as a character voice and continued in that field for the next 30 years. She appeared on many episodes of The Midnight Sleuth as Mrs. Hildenberry, as well as the beloved children's cartoon Timmy and the Tip Toes as Sally Toe.
Martha Chaplin & Talk Radio
In 1942, Sandra met Martha Chaplin while auditioning for an upcoming film. Martha, who was also from the UK and moved to the US at a young age, ultimately beat Sandra out for the role, but the two became good friends and were almost inseparable.
In 1970, they were approached to host a weekly talk show about whatever they wanted, resulting in the creation of Sandra & Martha's Tips of the Week. The show quickly gained popularity with listeners, who loved hearing the two bicker, which went against the original plan of providing useful household tips. The show remained on the air for nearly 40 years, even as they attempted to rebrand and change its format. Soon, listeners found themselves tuning in to follow the ongoing adventures and lives of Sandra and Martha.
Death
After their long-running talk show ended, Sandra moved to Chicago, a city she loved. There, she lived with her fiancé Michael until she died peacefully in her sleep on Oct 21, 2015.
Appearances
Audio/Podcasts
- The Midnight Sleuth (2011-2014)
- Sandra & Martha's Home Kitchen Theater Talking Show (2003-2015) (First Appearance)