Peggy Rea was born on March 31, 1921 in Los Angeles, California. Growing up in the heart of the entertainment industry, she developed a love for acting at a young age. After graduating from high school, she decided to pursue her passion and enrolled at the University of California-Los Angeles to study theater.
While attending UCLA, Rea took on various odd jobs to support herself, including working as a secretary at MGM. It was during this time that she discovered her true calling and started auditioning for acting roles. Her hard work paid off when she landed her first major role in the 1971 comedy movie Cold Turkey, where she played the character of Mrs. Proctor.
Following her success in Cold Turkey, Rea's career took off. She went on to secure recurring roles on popular TV shows such as Gunsmoke, The Dukes of Hazzard, and The Waltons. However, it was her role as Jean Kelly on the ABC sitcom Grace Under Fire that solidified her status as a household name. Her portrayal of the quirky, lovable character endeared her to audiences across the country.
Throughout her career, Rea remained true to her roots and continued to live in Los Angeles, California. Despite her busy schedule, she always made time for family and friends, and was known for her warmth and kindness both on and off set.
Although Peggy Rea has since passed away, her legacy lives on. Her talent, charisma, and dedication to her craft continue to inspire actors and fans alike. She will always be remembered as a beloved figure in Hollywood, with a career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
While Peggy Rea did not receive any major awards during her lifetime, her performances were consistently praised by critics and audiences alike. Her ability to bring humor and heart to every role she played set her apart as a true talent in the world of television and film.