A talented actor, Estelle Getty’s love of performing began when she was just a child. After finding her footing in Broadway, Getty took on the role of Sophia Petrillo in the 1985 comedy, The Golden Girls.

During an interview, Getty expressed her surprise that the quality of the series seemed to attract a new circle of viewers.

“I’m not nearly as attractive as the other three women,” Getty said during an interview with United Features. “Even my husband watches it; he never watches comedy. I’m not sure whether he watches it because he likes me or the show.”

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But while Getty was surprised by the widespread audience the series had earned, she had her own theories on the source of The Golden Girls’ success.

“It’s grown up,” said the actor. “It’s irreverant. We say a lot of things and get away with it because there’s something about an older woman saying it that makes it funny. An attractive young woman saying it becomes lewd.”

Playing the role of Sophia was no easy task; Getty used wardrobe and makeup tools in an attempt to make herself appear older. In reality, she was closer in age to the other cast members in the series.

Despite the upkeep, Getty was happy that the costume for her character acted as a disguise.

“I’m happy that people don’t recognize me on the street,” said Getty. “It gives me a private life. Entertainment people are royalty in this country. People line up just to look at you.”