Nancy Kulp wore numerous hats throughout her life, including those of a publicity person, actress, linguist, would-be politician, and teacher. Born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Kulp began her educational pursuits in Florida before making the move to Hollywood to work in the film industry's publicity department rather than seeking stardom.
Upon arriving in Hollywood, Kulp was persuaded by acclaimed director George Cukor and renowned casting director Billy Gordon to utilize her talents in front of the camera instead of behind the scenes. Consequently, she embarked on a successful career as a character actress in both films and television.
Notable roles in her illustrious career include her portrayals of "Pamela Livingstone," a bird enthusiast, on The Bob Cummings Show in 1955, and "Miss Jane Hathaway," a long-suffering, lovesick, and bird-loving character, on The Beverly Hillbillies from 1962 to 1971.
After The Beverly Hillbillies concluded its nine-year run, Kulp continued to work in the entertainment industry, appearing in various theatrical productions, on Broadway, and in television shows. Additionally, she experimented with politics, launching an unsuccessful bid for Congress in Pennsylvania in 1984.
Later in life, Kulp turned her focus to teaching acting and eventually retired to a farm in Connecticut before relocating to Palm Springs, where she ultimately passed away from cancer in 1991.
