Valerie Harper, renowned for her roles in iconic sitcoms like Rhoda and The Mary Tyler Moore Show, recently faced a health scare while performing in Maine. Diagnosed with lung cancer in 2009 and later revealing a terminal brain cancer diagnosis in 2013, Harper’s situation has prompted us to reflect on the profound impact she has had on women across generations. Her name has become a symbol of humor and feminism. “She showed me that women could be funny,” shared one fan. “I always saw her as a maternal figure,” said another. “Both Valerie and Mary Tyler Moore were trailblazers for working women.”
Harper’s career began on stage in the 1960s, and she later starred in her own show, Valerie, during the 1980s. More recently, she graced the stage of Dancing With the Stars. However, her most memorable character remains Rhoda Morgenstern, who first captured our hearts on The Mary Tyler Moore Show in 1970. Rhoda then ventured to New York City, where she starred in her groundbreaking sitcom, Rhoda, from 1974 to 1978.
Rhoda was clever, incredibly funny, and a fashion icon who humorously described her “bad puberty” that “lasted 17 years.” She was an independent woman who navigated life with her sister, got married and divorced, and even launched her own business—truly a role model for the Women’s Movement. For all these reasons, we’ll always admire and appreciate Rhoda, as well as Valerie Harper, for demonstrating how to live life fearlessly, humorously, and unapologetically.
- She made the bold move from Minneapolis to New York City, setting out on her own.
- Rhoda had an incredible mother, played by Nancy Walker, with whom she experienced a realistically challenging relationship. Ida Morgenstern gave Rhoda the tough love she needed to find her independence.
- She took the subway to her own wedding, a moment made unforgettable when Phyllis (Cloris Leachman) forgot to pick her up.
- Rhoda ran her own window-dressing business, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.
- In a humorous nod to her friend Mary Tyler Moore, Rhoda tried and failed to replicate the famous hat toss in the show’s opening credits.
- Like many women, she had a complex relationship with her weight. In one memorable episode, she attended a Weight Watchers-like group, humorously dubbed “Fatties Anonymous.” Her candid conversation with Mary about body image resonates with women from any era.
- Rhoda navigated divorce unapologetically in a time when this was not common and juggled dating without the help of modern technology.
- And those headscarves! Rhoda’s unique fashion sense, highlighted by her signature scarves, continues to inspire fans who strive to emulate her trendsetting style.
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In summary, Rhoda Morgenstern embodies the spirit of independence, humor, and resilience, making her an enduring figure in television history. Valerie Harper’s portrayal of her not only entertained us but also empowered generations of women to embrace their individuality and pursue their dreams without reservation.