Irene Ryan was 59 years old when she was cast as Granny on #TheBeverlyHillbillies. The casting director for the show originally told Ryan she was too young for the part, so she called show creator Paul Henning and said, "Look, Paul, do I have to go home and get my gray wig and shawl to convince you?👵🏻 | FETV

Remembering Irene Ryan, who passed away on this day in 1973. The actress found great success playing Granny on #TheBeverlyHillbillies and, by the time of her passing, had a $1 million estate. She had no living relatives to give the money to, so she started The Irene Ryan Foundation for theater aspirants, which is still running today. 🎭❤️ Watch Irene Ryan in #TheBeverlyHillbillies weekdays at 9a ET on FETV! | FETV