The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Betty Harford, the esteemed actress celebrated for her role as the Carrington family cook in the iconic 1980s soap opera, Dynasty. She was 98 years old.
Her passing was announced on social media by her friend, Wendy Mitchell, who shared the heartfelt news on Facebook. Betty Harford Naszody died peacefully with her family by her side at noon on November 2, 2025.
A Legacy in Dynasty and The Paper Chase
Betty Harford's most famous role was that of Mrs Hilda Gummerson, the loyal cook for the wealthy Carrington dynasty. She appeared in the primetime soap from its heyday in 1981 through to 1989, and returned for the reunion mini-series in 1991.
Fans adored Mrs Gummerson, who featured in more than 30 episodes. One of her most memorable storylines involved her son falling ill, with the glamorous Alexis Colby stepping in to cover the medical bills, while Krystle Carrington made her feel like a genuine part of the family.
Prior to her time at the Carrington mansion, Harford made her mark playing Ms Nottingham, the secretary to the formidable Professor Charles Kingsfield, in the television series The Paper Chase. She was part of the original run from 1978 to 1979 and returned when the show was revived by Showtime in 1983.
A Prolific Career on Screen
Beyond her renowned television work, Betty Harford's career spanned film and numerous other TV shows. She starred in the movies Wild and Innocent as Gloria and Inside Daisy Clover as the sister of Natalie Wood's character.
Her television credits were extensive, with appearances in classic series such as Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Gunsmoke, Dr. Kildare, The Twilight Zone, and The Big Valley.
Remembering Betty Harford's Personal Life
In her personal life, Harford was first married to sculptor Oliver Andrews. The couple had one son, Chris, before divorcing in the late 1970s.
She later remarried Alex de Naszody, who passed away nearly three decades ago in 1996.
Betty Harford is survived by her son, Chris, and her grandsons. The family has requested privacy during this time as they remember a beloved mother, grandmother, and a cherished figure from television history.
