Lisa Gerritsen, born on December 21, 1957, in Los Angeles, is a former American child actress. She is renowned for her role as Bess Lindstrom in the iconic 1970s TV series “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and its spin-off “Phyllis”.
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Table of Contents
Who is Lisa Gerritsen?
Lisa Gerritsen, originally born Lisa Orszag, comes from a lineage of actors. She is the granddaughter of child actor and screenwriter True Eames Boardman and the great-granddaughter of silent film actors True Boardman and Virginia True Boardman.
Early Life
Gerritsen’s acting career was influenced by her family’s background in the industry. She started acting at the age of eight, landing her first professional role in an episode of “The Doris Day Show” in 1968.
Personal Life
Lisa Gerritsen is married to John Rustan, and the couple has one son. As of 2024, her net worth is estimated to be around $4 million.
Career
Gerritsen’s career took off with guest appearances in shows like “The Odd Couple,” “Bonanza,” and “Family Affair.” Her performance in “Gunsmoke” led to her first regular role in “My World and Welcome to It” in 1969. Although the show won two Emmy awards, it was canceled after one season.
Her breakthrough role was as Bess Lindstrom in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” starting in 1970, continuing this role in the spinoff “Phyllis.”
Filmography
Gerritsen made her film debut in “Airport” in 1970, followed by appearances in “A Howling in the Woods,” “The War Between Men and Women,” “Locusts,” and “Mixed Company.”
Television Appearances
Her television career is marked by notable appearances in “Gunsmoke,” “The Doris Day Show,” “My World and Welcome to It,” “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” and “Phyllis,” among others.
Impact on TV Shows
On “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” Gerritsen’s character Bess was crucial in changing the audience’s perception of Rhoda (played by Valerie Harper), leading to Rhoda becoming a beloved character.
Conclusion
Lisa Gerritsen’s career in television and film has left a memorable imprint, especially in the landscape of 1970s American TV. Her portrayal of intelligent, independent-minded young characters has been a highlight of her acting journey.
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FAQs about Lisa Gerritsen
- What was Lisa Gerritsen’s first acting role?
- Her first role was in “The Doris Day Show” in 1968.
- What character did Lisa Gerritsen play in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”?
- She played Bess Lindstrom.
- When did Lisa Gerritsen begin her acting career?
- Her acting career began at the age of eight.
- Has Lisa Gerritsen won any awards for her acting?
- She was part of the cast of “My World and Welcome to It,” which won two Emmy awards.
- What is Lisa Gerritsen’s net worth?
- As of 2024, her net worth is estimated to be around $4 million.
