Rue McClanahan dishes on ”Golden Girls”

“Golden Girl” Rue McClanahan opens up about her new memoir, “My First Five Husbands…,” shares behind-the-scenes stories from the hit sitcom, and discusses her upcoming TV and stage projects.

Over two decades ago, Rue McClanahan cemented her status as a television icon by portraying Blanche Devereaux — a vivacious, flirtatious Southern belle — on The Golden Girls. Much like her character, Rue herself has led a colorful love life. Now in her seventies and happily married to her sixth husband, the legendary actress is ready to share her romantic adventures in her new autobiography, My First Five Husbands… And the Ones Who Got Away. Recently, Rue sat down with EW.com to discuss her book, reflect on The Golden Girls, and share her upcoming projects.

ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: You’ve always seen yourself as a writer, but what inspired you to write this book now? Why dig into your love life at this point?
RUE MCCLANAHAN: People have been telling me for years, “You write just like you talk — you should write a book!” But I never felt I had a story worth telling. Over time, I wrote a musical set in ancient Athens called Oedipus Shmedipus, As Long as You Love Your Mother, along with a few short stories. Eventually, I gave in to the idea of telling my own story. A couple of years ago, I realized I finally had something to say.

What was the writing process like?
I absolutely loved it! I looked forward to it the way you anticipate a big Thanksgiving feast. My life has been so rich in experiences, and finding ways to describe it all in vivid, colorful language was a joy.

Your life has been well-documented over the years. Did this feel like your opportunity to set the record straight?
Absolutely. I wanted to offer some guidance to younger people, particularly those in their twenties. Don’t repeat my mistakes! Trust me — six husbands is too many. My biggest advice when it comes to relationships is to act from a place of love, not need or desperation. Real love is about giving, not taking.

But love and relationships can be deceiving, right? Was that a challenge for you?
Oh, I was a pro at fooling myself! I could paint the prettiest picture on the ugliest fence. But it took me years to learn that you have to face reality. You need to examine your choices closely — maybe with a magnifying glass, if not a microscope. Ask yourself, “Is this relationship really going to work? Or am I just grasping at straws?” That’s the essence of my book.

Your book dives deep into your romantic history. Were you hesitant to dig up stories about your exes?
The safest way to tell a story is to be brutally honest about yourself. When it comes to other people, especially if they’re still alive, you have to be careful to avoid legal troubles. Two of my marriages were particularly rough, and I’ve shared enough about those situations. Some things are best left unsaid.

So you left some stories out?
Of course! That’s the beauty of writing — you don’t have to share everything. I have at least 25 stories that didn’t make it into the book. If I included them all, the book would have been 600 pages long!

Does that mean a second book is on the horizon?
I’m considering it, but it wouldn’t be about me. It would reflect my unique perspective on things. I’m not a novelist; I don’t have that intricate storytelling ability. But I do have plenty to say about life, and I might just put it down on paper again.

Speaking of writing, did you have any influence on the scripts for The Golden Girls?
Not really! The writers kept us separate from their process. Occasionally, I’d make suggestions, like saying, “This line doesn’t feel right for Blanche; maybe Sophia should say it.” Betty [White] and Bea [Arthur] did the same. However, Estelle [Getty] didn’t offer feedback — she was new to this kind of high-stakes television and was just trying to keep up.

Estelle reportedly struggled with her lines. How was that handled on set?
Oh, she had a tough time. After the audience left, we’d stay behind to reshoot her scenes. It was exhausting. Poor Estelle felt embarrassed and humiliated. Interestingly, she didn’t have those issues on The Golden Palace after Bea left. I wonder if Bea’s presence intimidated her, even if it wasn’t intentional.

Do younger fans approach you about The Golden Girls?
All the time! People often tell me, “I used to watch the show with my grandmother.” Now that you mention it, I see why. It aired on weekends, so kids visiting their grandparents ended up watching with them.

You appeared in Wicked on Broadway. Was that a fulfilling experience?
Honestly? No. I just wanted to check “Broadway musical” off my bucket list. Musicals aren’t for me — they’re boring! I prefer acting in roles with depth and complexity.

You’re also working on a new musical, Cobra Island. What’s it about?
It’s a quirky, offbeat story set in the 1930s on a South Sea island ruled by an evil queen under the influence of a volcano god. Two reporters from Nebraska travel there in search of a story, and chaos ensues. It’s packed with humor and mischief. I’m hoping to do a workshop after my book tour and then take it to an off-Broadway venue.

You’re also starring in a new sitcom, Ryan’s Life. Can you tell us more?
Sure! It’s about a 15-year-old boy in Los Angeles who’s questioning his sexuality. I play his flamboyant grandmother — a vibrant, colorful woman who becomes his closest confidant. The character is beautifully written, and the show has real heart. We’ll likely start shooting this summer.

Do you think Ryan’s Life will resonate with audiences as much as The Golden Girls did?
It’s the best script I’ve seen since The Golden Girls, and I’ve read plenty of pilots since then! I’m excited to bring it to life.