Billie Burke

Billie Burke was an American actress renowned for her performances on Broadway, in silent and sound films, and on radio. Born Mary William Ethelbert Appleton Burke on August 7, 1884, in Washington, D.C., she was the daughter of a circus clown and spent much of her early life touring Europe with her family. Burke made her stage debut in London in 1903 and later moved to the United States, where she became a prominent figure in musical comedies and films. She is perhaps best known for her portrayal of Glinda the Good Witch in the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz .

Throughout her career, Billie Burke was celebrated for her comedic timing, distinctive voice, and graceful presence. She appeared in over 90 films and numerous Broadway productions, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Merrily We Live (1938). Burke was married to Broadway producer Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. from 1914 until his death in 1932, and they had one daughter, Patricia Ziegfeld Stephenson .

Some of Billie Burke’s most memorable quotes reflect her wit and perspective on life and career. She famously said, “Age is of no importance unless you are a cheese,” highlighting her belief in the irrelevance of age. Another notable quote is, “A woman past forty should make up her mind to be young; not her face,” emphasizing the importance of youthful spirit over appearance . These words continue to resonate with audiences, showcasing her timeless charm and insight.