‘Dynasty’ & ‘The Paper Chase’ star dies at 98

Soap opera fans are mourning the loss of a television icon.

Betty Harford, the cherished actress best known for playing Mrs. Gunnerson — the loyal, no-nonsense Carrington family cook on Dynasty — has passed away at the age of 98.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Harford died peacefully on November 2 in Santa Barbara, California. The news was confirmed by her close friend Wendy Mitchell, who shared on Facebook:

“Betty’s son contacted me this morning and Betty Harford Naszody passed away peacefully with family at her side, noon on November 2, 2025. She was 98.”

A familiar face from television’s golden age

Harford became a beloved presence in American households during the 1980s through her role as Mrs. Gunnerson on Dynasty, appearing from 1981 to 1989 and returning for the 1991 reunion miniseries. Her character — quick-tongued yet kindhearted — often provided comic relief and became known for her “legendary lamb stew for Blake,” a recurring inside joke among Dynasty fans.

On social media, tributes poured in from admirers around the world. One fan on X (formerly Twitter) wrote:

“Farewell to the wonderful Betty Harford, the foul-mouthed cook of the Carringtons (the legendary lamb stew for Blake) in Dynasty. American actress, she stood out in film as the sister of Natalie Wood’s character.”

Beyond Dynasty

Before her soap opera fame, Harford played Mrs. Nottingham, the sharp and loyal secretary to John Houseman’s Professor Kingsfield in The Paper Chase (1978–1979). Her television credits spanned decades, with appearances on The Twilight Zone, Gunsmoke, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Dr. Kildare, and The Big Valley.

A career alongside Hollywood greats

On the big screen, Harford shared the screen with some of Hollywood’s finest — including Kirk Douglas in Spartacus (1960) and Natalie Wood in Inside Daisy Clover (1965), where she portrayed Wood’s sister, Gloria.

Born in New York City in 1927, Harford began her career on the stage before moving into film and television. She collaborated closely with the legendary producer John Houseman on several theatrical projects and continued working in the arts for decades.

She was married twice — first to California sculptor Oliver Andrews, who died in 1978, and later to Hungarian actor Sándor (Alex) de Naszody, who passed away in 1996. She is survived by her son, Chris, and her grandsons.

Betty Harford’s passing marks the end of an era for classic television fans. Her grace, humor, and unmistakable warmth left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment — a legacy that will continue to live on through every Dynasty rerun and in the hearts of those who remember her fondly.