Copyright metro
Dynasty star Betty Harford has died (Picture: ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images) Betty Harford, best known for her work in Dynasty and The Paper Chase, has died at the age of 98. The actress’s death was confirmed on social media, with friends paying tribute to the star. ‘Betty’s son contacted me this morning, and Betty Harford Naszody passed away peacefully with family at her side, noon on November 2, 2025, she was 98,’ her friend Wendy Mitchell confirmed on Facebook. The star was best known for playing Mrs Hilda Gummerson in the 80s primetime soap opera. Mrs Gummerson was the Carrington family cook from 1981 to 1989 and returned for the reunion mini-series in 1991. The character was beloved by fans and appeared in more than 30 episodes with major storylines. One memorable storyline centred around her son falling ill and Alexis paying for medical expenses, with Krystle making her feel like part of the family. She played Hilda Gummerson on the ABC Show (Picture: ABC) She was also remembered for playing Ms Nottingham in The Paper Chase. Her character was the secretary of Professor Charles Kingsfield in the show, which ran from 1978 until 1979, and was later brought back by Showtime in 1983. Harford also starred in the movies Wild and Innocent as the character Gloria and Inside Daisy Clover as the sister of Natalie Wood’s character. She also appeared in series including Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Gunsmoke, Dr. Kildare, The Twilight Zone, and The Big Valley. She appeared in 34 episodes of the show (Picture: ABC) The star also appeared in The Paper Chase (Picture: 20thCentFox/Courtesy Everett Collection) Harford was first married to sculptor Oliver Andrews, with whom she had one child named Chris, and divorced in the late 70s. She went on to remarry Alex de Naszody, who died almost 30 years ago in 1996. Harford is survived by her son, Chris, and her grandsons. Got a story? If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
