'I Love Lucy': Vivian Vance's Cause Of Death In Memoriam

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Vivian Vance in 'I Love Lucy'

'I Love Lucy' (1951-1957) - Vance's performance as "Ethel Mertz" remains her most celebrated work. Her character's friendship with "Lucy Ricardo" brought countless laughs and heartfelt moments, making her an integral part of the show's success.

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Vivian Vance, Ernie Kovacs, Lucille Ball, in 'The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour'

'The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour' (1957-1960) - Following the end of 'I Love Lucy,' Vance continued to play "Ethel" in this spin-off series, further showcasing her comedic talents alongside Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz.

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Vivian Vance, Lucille Ball in 'I Love Lucy'

'The Lucy Show' (1962-1968) - Vance reunited with Ball on this successful sitcom, playing the role of Vivian Bagley, "Lucy's friend "and housemate. Their chemistry once again proved to be a winning formula, and Vance received three Emmy nominations for her work on the show.

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Vivian Vance and William Frawley in 'I Love Lucy'

Broadway and Stage Work - Before her television fame, Vance had a successful career on the stage. She appeared in several Broadway productions, including 'Hooray for What!' (1937) and 'Let's Face It!' (1941), where she honed her acting and comedic skills.

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Vivian Vance

Cause of Death:
Vivian Vance passed away on August 17, 1979, at the age of 70. She died of bone cancer, a condition she battled bravely. Despite her illness, Vance remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, remembered for her remarkable contributions to television and her unforgettable performances.

Vivian Vance is best known for her iconic role as "Ethel Mertz" on the beloved sitcom 'I Love Lucy' (1951-1957), where she played the best friend and neighbor of "Lucy Ricardo" (Lucille Ball). Her brilliant comedic timing and on-screen chemistry with Ball made her a household name and a beloved figure in television history.

Vivian Vance: Celebrating a Television Icon's Career and Legacy

Vance's portrayal of "Ethel" earned her an Emmy Award in 1954 and cemented her place in the pantheon of TV legends. Here, we take a look at her career highlights and the circumstances surrounding her passing.