Barbara Rhoades is a tall, red-headed actress known for her extensive and varied career in both film and television. Over the years, she has appeared in a wide range of genres, including crime-mysteries, comedies, and even game shows. As a character actor, Rhoades has remained active in the entertainment industry for close to four decades. Interestingly, her journey began in 1968, the same year she stepped into the spotlight with her role as Penelope “Bad Penny” Cushings in the comedy western The Shakiest Gun in the West, starring opposite Don Knotts as the clumsy Dr. Jesse Heywood.
As the 1970s rolled in, Barbara Rhoades became a familiar face on television, making guest appearances on a number of beloved classic shows. She popped up in episodes of popular sitcoms like The Odd Couple and Sanford and Son, as well as the action-packed cop series Mannix. These roles helped solidify her presence in Hollywood and showcased her versatility as an actress.
By 1977, Barbara Rhoades reached what many consider her most impressive year in showbiz. She appeared in 15 episodes of the short-lived but well-received comedy Busting Loose, starring Adam Arkin. That same year, she landed a significant supporting role in the critically acclaimed romantic comedy The Goodbye Girl, which earned Academy Award nominations and featured a stellar cast including Marsha Mason and Richard Dreyfuss.
In 1980, Rhoades took on a recurring role in the witty and groundbreaking sitcom Soap, where she played the love interest of Jodie Dallas, portrayed by a young and rising Billy Crystal. In addition to her television acting roles, Barbara Rhoades was also a frequent guest on game shows, particularly during the late 1970s and early 1980s. She became a familiar face on Match Game 73 and later appeared regularly on Password Plus from 1979 to 1981.
Even as the decades passed, Barbara Rhoades continued to stay active in the entertainment world. In 2007, she took on a leading role in the horror film First Born, proving that her passion for acting never waned. Through it all, Barbara Rhoades has maintained a unique and enduring presence in both film and television history.
Barbara Rhoades has appeared in a variety of films throughout her career, but one of her most acclaimed performances came in the 1974 movie Harry and Tonto. This film stands out as Barbara Rhoades’ highest rated movie, showcasing her talent and contributing to its enduring popularity. On the other end of the spectrum, Barbara Rhoades’ lowest rated movie is Scream Blacula Scream, which was released in 1973. While it may not have received the same level of praise, it still represents an interesting chapter in Barbara Rhoades’ filmography.