Los Angeles, CA – Renowned television writer Stan Zimmerman reflects on his experiences working with a diverse and talented group of women in Hollywood, shedding light on the dynamics behind the scenes of the beloved sitcom “Golden Girls.” In his book, “The Girls: From Golden to Gilmore,” Zimmerman delves into his interactions with actress Betty White.
During the show’s premiere season, Zimmerman observed White’s interactions with her co-star Estelle Getty, who was struggling with memory issues. While some in the writer’s room speculated that Getty was neglecting her lines due to socializing, Zimmerman now believes Getty was dealing with early stages of dementia, which was not formally diagnosed until years later.
Zimmerman recounts moments on set where Getty struggled with her lines, leading White to distract the audience by cracking jokes to give Getty time to regroup. While Zimmerman initially felt protective of Getty, he later understood that White’s humor served as a coping mechanism to ease Getty’s anxiety during filming.
The writer highlights the complexity of working in television, where quick script changes often challenged Getty, a theater veteran used to rehearsing the same lines repeatedly. Zimmerman emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding, noting that each actress, including White and Getty, had their unique struggles on set.
Addressing rumors of tension between White and co-star Bea Arthur, Zimmerman dismisses any personal animosity, attributing differences in work ethic and personality to their contrasting backgrounds in stage and television. He acknowledges that both actresses excelled in their roles but approached their craft differently.
Zimmerman’s reflections on his time writing for “Golden Girls” offer valuable insights into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the iconic show. His book also delves into his experiences on other successful series like “Roseanne” and “Gilmore Girls,” showcasing his interactions with Hollywood legends beyond the Golden Girls cast.