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This Everybody Loves Raymond star was originally cast as Vivian on Maude
Today, we know Rue McClanahan as Vivian. But all those years ago, it was a different story.
As an audience, we cling to our favorite characters as though they were a childhood stuffed animal. It can be almost inconceivable to believe that, were it not for a quick change of fate, your favorite television shows would look entirely different.
During an interview with the Television Academy Foundation, actor Rue McClanahan described such a turn of fate that worked in her favor.
McClanahan is known for her fair share of television roles, including Blanche Devereaux in The Golden Girls. Previously, McClanahan played next-door neighbor and best friend Vivian on the popular series, All in the Family.
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*available in most MeTV marketsMcClanahan explained that she was approached by creator Norman Lear while she was guest starring on an episode of All in the Family.
“Norman Lear came to me on the set of All in the Family and said, ‘Rue, I’ve got this new show called Maude, and it’s two days behind in the schedule of All in the Family,’” said McClanahan.
The role of Vivian had already been cast, but it seemed that Lear was looking to move in a different direction, and asked McClanahan to take over the character. Who was the actor she replaced, you might ask?
“It was Doris Roberts,” said McClanahan. “They wanted someone else with a different flavor.”
A talented actor, Roberts would later receive critical acclaim for her portrayal of Marie Barone in the popular sitcom, Everybody Loves Raymond. McClanahan agreed to take the role, and the rest is history.
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