Thank You For Being A Friend: Broadway Remembers Bea Arthur at Starry Memorial

Theater legends and fans alike gathered at the Majestic Theatre on September 14 to remember icon Bea Arthur, the Tony-winning leading lady and comedienne who passed away on April 25, 2009 after a battle with cancer. A storied showbiz veteran whose career spanned nearly 50 years, Arthur was remembered throughout Celebrating Bea Arthur by speakers, friends and performers, including Norman Lear, creator of Arthur's televisions series Maude; former Arthur collaborator Chita Rivera; TV and stage veteran Rosie O'Donnell; contemporary Jerry Stiller; and Golden Girls star Rue McClanahan, among many others. The event, hosted by five-time Tony Award winner Angela Lansbury, was a true celebration of the actress, with pals and confidants taking the stage to remember Arthur's wit, sense of humor and warmth, as well as her numerous contributions to theater and television. Click on to celebrate Bea Arthur!