Retro Blast: 10 Mary Tyler Moore Facts You Probably Didn't Know

She had early beginnings in advertising. Before her rise to fame, Mary Tyler Moore began her career as a model. Her work in commercials, including a notable stint as a spokeswoman for the cookware brand, was instrumental in shaping her early career in the entertainment industry.

Moore's talent extended beyond television. In 1980, she starred in the Broadway play 'Whose Life Is It Anyway?', where she received critical acclaim for her portrayal of a woman paralyzed in a car accident. Her performance earned her a nomination for the Tony Award, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Moore was not just a leading lady; she was also an influential producer. Alongside her then-husband Grant Tinker, she co-founded MTM Enterprises, which produced 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. This venture significantly impacted the television industry, establishing a new standard for TV comedy.

In her early career, Moore did her own stunts, including a memorable sequence in 'The Dick Van Dyke Show'. For one particular scene, she had to perform a challenging stunt involving a tumble. Her bravery and dedication to her craft were evident in her willingness to tackle such physical challenges.

She was also involved in political activism throughout her life. She was a prominent advocate for the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) and used her platform to champion women's rights and gender equality, reflecting her commitment to social issues.

A Touch of Broadway Magic: Before her TV fame, Moore made her Broadway debut in the 1950s in the musical Top Banana, which starred Phil Silvers. Although her role was minor, this experience laid the groundwork for her later success in television and film.

Her career was galvanised by awards. In 1986, Moore received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Ronald Reagan. This honor recognized her significant contributions to American culture and her impact on television, celebrating her role as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.

Moore's later years were marked by personal health struggles. She was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at a young age and later battled various health issues, including a brain tumor. Despite these challenges, she remained a beacon of resilience and strength.

Moore's portrayal of "Mary Richards", a single working woman in 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show', broke new ground for female characters on television. Her role inspired a generation of women by depicting a strong, independent career woman who balanced work and personal life with grace and humor.

She also had quite a passion for animal welfare. Outside of her acting career, Moore was a dedicated animal rights advocate. She supported various animal welfare organizations and used her fame to raise awareness about animal cruelty, reflecting her compassion for all living beings.