Eleanor Wilson

Eleanor Delaney Wilson (September 9, 1908 – May 31, 2002) was an American Tony-nominated actress and artist, known for her roles in Reds and the Gore Vidal play Weekend (1968).

Early years Wilson was born on September 9, 1908, in Chester, Pennsylvania. Her parents were Benny Y. Wilson and Florence Wetherill Wilson. After attending Mary Lyon School in Swarthmore, she graduated from Hollins College with a degree in chemistry and went on to become an actress and artist.

Career Wilson's initial professional acting experience came with director Jasper Deeter at the Hedgerow Theatre. She went on to perform at the Alley Theatre in Houston, the Arena Theatre in Washington, D. C., and the Milwaukee Repertory Theatre. Her film roles include Alice's Restaurant (1969) and Reds (1981). She retired from acting in 1984 and then focused on creating mathematical abstract paintings.

Wilson was a member of Actors Equity's union council. During World War II, she toured with the USO.

Legacy Wilson was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play for her role as Mrs. Andrews in Weekend. Wilson created and provided financial support for the Eleanor D. Wilson museum at her alma mater, Hollins University.

Filmography Year Title Role Notes1969 Alice's Restaurant Landlady 1981 Reds Mrs. Reed as John Reed's mother