Celebrity Info
Agnes Moorehead—best known for her iconic portrayal of Endora on the beloved TV series Bewitched (ABC, 1964–1972)—was a remarkably versatile performer whose career flourished across stage, screen, and radio. Born in Clinton, Massachusetts, Agnes Moorehead’s early life took a pivotal turn when her family moved to St. Louis, Missouri during her childhood. Even at a young age, Agnes Moorehead showed a natural flair for mimicry and storytelling, often entertaining those around her, which fueled her growing ambition to become an actress.
She went on to graduate from Muskingum College in 1923 with a major in biology, though her passion for performance never waned. While at college, Agnes Moorehead participated in numerous theatrical productions, laying the groundwork for her future. After graduation, she spent five years teaching public school—a chapter that helped her grow both personally and professionally—before pursuing a master’s degree in public speaking and English at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Her formal acting training began at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, but breaking into the industry wasn’t easy. For a time, Agnes Moorehead faced uncertainty and periods of unemployment. However, her fortunes shifted when she found her voice—quite literally—in radio. It was there that Agnes Moorehead truly shined, quickly establishing herself as a powerful presence in the medium.
Film proved more challenging, but persistence paid off. She became a key member of Orson Welles’s Mercury Theatre Players, a collaboration that led to her film debut in Citizen Kane (1941), where she delivered a memorable performance as the mother of Welles’s character. This was followed by roles in The Magnificent Ambersons (1942) and Journey Into Fear (1943), further solidifying her reputation as a skilled dramatic actress.
Over the next few years, Agnes Moorehead took on increasingly prominent roles in films such as The Big Street (1942), Mrs. Parkington (1944), and The Youngest Profession (1944). Her talent didn’t go unnoticed—soon, she signed a contract with MGM, which included a unique clause allowing her to continue working on radio projects the studio produced. That flexibility reflected just how valued Agnes Moorehead was across different entertainment platforms.
By the late 1950s and early 1960s, Agnes Moorehead began making regular appearances on television. Though she delivered strong performances in various series, it was her role as Endora on Bewitched that captured the public’s imagination like no other. As the mischievous, sharp-tongued witch mother to Elizabeth Montgomery’s Samantha, Agnes Moorehead brought wit, charm, and undeniable presence to every scene. The role earned her multiple award nominations, and while she was widely praised, Agnes Moorehead often admitted feeling confined by it—she longed for more diverse opportunities beyond the magical matriarch audiences adored.
Agnes Moorehead continued working until near the end of her life. Sadly, she passed away in 1974 in Rochester, Minnesota, after battling uterine cancer. Still, her legacy endures. Agnes Moorehead remains a celebrated figure in American entertainment history—a true pioneer whose artistry transcended mediums and left an indelible mark on generations of performers and fans alike.
When it comes to Agnes Moorehead’s career highlights, one film really stands out as her highest rated performance—Jane Eyre from 1944. That role truly showcased her talent and left a lasting impression on both critics and audiences alike. Over the years, fans and film enthusiasts have often pointed to this classic adaptation as a defining moment in Agnes Moorehead’s filmography. On the other hand, not every project she was involved in received the same level of acclaim. In fact, Raintree County (1957) is generally regarded as her lowest rated movie. While Agnes Moorehead brought depth to every character she played, that particular film didn’t resonate as strongly with viewers or critics. Still, even in less successful works, Agnes Moorehead’s presence added a layer of sophistication and intensity. It’s clear that throughout her career, Agnes Moorehead consistently delivered memorable performances, even if some films rose higher in public favor than others.
United States
