Rue McClanahan, the sexy Golden Girl, has died at the age of 76 from a massive stroke. Betty White issued a public statement about how the loss of her co-star "hurts" and her good friendship with McClanahan. White noted that, "Rue was a close and dear friend". Like Betty White, Rue McClanahan was a strong friend of animals and supported their rights.

Rue McClanahan had a decent string of success in two NBC comedy hits. She was in MAUDE which aired from 1972-1978. THE GOLDEN GIRLS was a second big hit for McClanahan, airing from 1985-1992.

McClanahan was the youngest of the cast members, and her story-lines usually involved her character with some romantic adventures with some boyfriend. She proved that older women can indeed be very sexy.

McClanahan was a very fine comedy actress. She was such a great fixture on network TV. She will be deeply missed by all who love her.