Donna Douglas

Biography

Donna Douglas, born Doris Ione Smith on September 26, 1932, was an American actress and singer best known for her portrayal of Elly May Clampett on CBS's The Beverly Hillbillies from 1962 to 1971. A Louisiana native, Douglas began her career in New York City, initially working as a model and appearing on television shows such as The Perry Como Show and The Ed Sullivan Show. Her film credits include roles in Career (1959) and Frankie and Johnny (1966), alongside Elvis Presley. After The Beverly Hillbillies, she shifted her focus to gospel music, real estate, and motivational speaking. Douglas was married twice and had one son. She maintained a close friendship with her co-star Buddy Ebsen for over three decades. Douglas passed away on January 1, 2015, from pancreatic cancer, and was interred in Bluff Creek Cemetery, Louisiana.