|
|
Ellen Miller [1954-1957], played by Jan Clayton
Ellen Miller is a widow raising a son named Jeff on a small farm near the fictional town of Calverton. Her husband John Miller was killed in WWII. Her father-in-law George "Gramps" Miller lives on the farm and manages the heavier work. Ellen's mother lives in Capitol City, 50 miles distant. Ellen has attended college and, in one episode, enjoys a visit from her college roommate. Ellen sings in church and has been offered a job singing on the radio. She attracts the romantic interest of Clay Horton, a constable who asks her for a date, but serious romance never develops. In the fourth season episode, "The Transition", Ellen's father-in-law Gramps Miller dies, and she decides to move to Capitol City to teach music. Paul and Ruth Martin buy the farm and adopt Timmy, a foster boy living on the farm. Lassie remains with Timmy when Ellen moves.
Jan Clayton was a celebrated musical theater star before taking the job of playing Ellen Miller. When her daughter died in a car accident, Clayton wanted to leave the show and return to the musical stage. Producers tried to keep her on the show (even suggesting her widow character get married and adopt "Timmy") but Clayton rejected all suggestions. She was finally written out of the show when co-star Cleveland died suddenly in the fourth season and the show was completely overhauled. In "Transition" she moves to Capitol City with her son, but makes one last appearance in the episode immediately following to give Timmy's new mom some tips about raising a boy. She never appeared on the show again. |
Digg
Furl
Del.icio.us
Google