With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of the talented and beloved actor Marguerite Ray, known for her iconic role in ‘The Young And The Restless’. Marguerite Ray bid farewell to this world on November 18, 2020, in Los Angeles at 89, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
Ray, born March 18, 1931, was an American television actress known for originating the role of Mamie Johnson in the soap opera The Young and the Restless; she was the first Black regular on the show. In a career that lasted from the 1960s until 2001, she also appeared in Sanford and had a recurring role in Dynasty.
Marguerite Ray began her acting career at a young age with her undeniable talent and passion for the craft. Throughout her illustrious career, Marguerite graced the silver screen and our television sets with her unforgettable performances in movies and TV shows, earning admiration and acclaim from critics and fans alike.
Marguerite Ray’s portrayal of Mamie Johnson in ‘The Young And The Restless’ endeared her to audiences worldwide, solidifying her as a true icon in the entertainment world. Her dedication to her craft and ability to bring characters to life with depth and authenticity set her apart as a talented and versatile actor.
Colleagues and friends have admired Marguerite Ray’s talent and impact on the industry. In expressing her loss, some of her Co-stars said, “Marguerite was a true professional on and off the set. Her dedication to her craft was unmatched, and her presence illuminated every scene she was in.” Another friend remarked, “Marguerite’s passion for acting was infectious, and her talent was undeniable. She will be deeply missed.”
Marguerite Ray’s contributions to the film and television industry will not be forgotten. Her legacy lives on through the timeless characters she brought to life and the hearts she touched with her talent. She will be remembered for her grace, talent, and unwavering dedication to her craft.
As we bid farewell to the legendary Marguerite Ray, we celebrate her life and her impact on all who had the privilege of working with her or watching her performances. May her memory be a blessing, and may her spirit continue to inspire future generations of actors and artists. Rest in peace, Marguerite Ray. You will be deeply missed.
Apart from her Young And The Restless, Marguerite Ray, the talented actress whose television career spanned over several decades, was known for her roles in the iconic TV shows Sanford and Son and Dynasty.
In Sanford and Son, Ray played Donna Harris, the love interest of Lamont Sanford, played by Demond Wilson. Donna was a recurring character in the show, appearing in several episodes throughout the series. Her relationship with Lamont provided a romantic subplot to the comedic situations that unfolded in the show.
One memorable moment from Sanford and Son featuring Ray’s character is in the episode “The Surprise Party,” where Donna surprises Lamont with a birthday party that doesn’t quite go as planned. Ray brought depth and warmth to the character of Donna, adding a touch of sweetness to the sometimes raucous world of Sanford and Son.
In Dynasty, Ray played the role of a glamorous fashion designer named Mary Lou. Her character was introduced in the show’s second season and appeared in a handful of episodes. Mary Lou was a rival to the show’s main character, Alexis Carrington, played by Joan Collins, and added a layer of intrigue to the already dramatic storylines of Dynasty. One memorable moment featuring Ray’s character in Dynasty is in the episode “The Wedding,” where Mary Lou clashes with Alexis over a dress design, leading to a tense confrontation. Ray brings a sense of sophistication and cunning to Mary Lou’s character, making her a formidable adversary for Alexis.
Ray’s roles in Sanford and Son and Dynasty showcase her versatility as an actress. In Sanford and Son, she portrayed Donna as a more down-to-earth and relatable character. At the same time, in Dynasty, she embodied the glamour and ambition of a high-powered fashion designer in Mary Lou. Ray’s ability to bring different qualities to each role highlights her range as an actress and her skill in bringing depth to her characters.
Overall, Marguerite Ray’s television career demonstrated her talent and versatility as an actress, particularly her roles in Sanford and Son and Dynasty. Her performances in these shows left a lasting impression on audiences. They showed her ability to bring nuance and complexity to various characters.
