Phyllis Anne Love, a talented individual, was born on December 21, 1925, in the vibrant city of Des Moines, Iowa. She had the privilege of attending Roosevelt High School alongside her close friend, the renowned actress Cloris Leachman. Prior to pursuing a career in the entertainment industry, Love actively participated in various local and regional dramatic productions, honing her craft and developing her skills.
In 1948, Love took the bold step of enrolling in the prestigious Actors Studio in New York, marking the beginning of her journey towards stardom. Her entry into the world of cinema came in the form of a minor role as a juvenile delinquent in the 1950 film "So Young, So Bad," starring the accomplished actors Paul Henreid and Rita Moreno.
Love's most notable film appearance was as the endearing character "Mattie Birdwell" in William Wyler's critically acclaimed drama "Friendly Persuasion" (1956). Throughout the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, she made numerous guest appearances on television programs, solidifying her status as a versatile and accomplished actress.
However, it was on the Broadway stage that Love truly shone, appearing in eight productions, including the original 1951 production of "The Rose Tattoo." Her captivating portrayal of "Rosa Delle Rosa" earned her the prestigious New York Charles Derwent Award for Best Featured Actress in 1951.
After retiring from acting in the early 1970s, Love underwent a personal transformation, changing her first name to "Osanna" and embarking on a new chapter in her life.