The Golden Girls, one of the most iconic TV shows of the ’80s and ’90s, continues to be adored by fans more than 30 years after its final episode aired. A sleeper hit, the show originally wasn’t expected to last past its first season, but it went on to become a cultural phenomenon. Recently, Stan Zimmerman, a staff writer for Season 1, shared some behind-the-scenes stories with Newsner, offering fans a rare glimpse into the world of the beloved sitcom.

One of the standout characters on the show was Sophia Petrillo, played by the unforgettable Estelle Getty. Known for her sharp wit and memorable one-liners, Getty’s on-screen persona was bold, but Zimmerman shared that off-screen, she was incredibly warm and caring. He recalls their first interaction fondly, describing how she pulled him and his writing partner aside, assuring them, “Your secret’s safe with me.” At the time, Zimmerman, who is gay, was told to keep his identity hidden. Getty’s gesture was one of kindness and understanding, a testament to her genuine character.

Zimmerman also shared that while Getty played the oldest Golden Girl, in reality, she was younger than her co-stars Bea Arthur and Betty White. Despite this, makeup artists worked hard to age her up for the role, a task made more challenging after Getty underwent a facelift between seasons.

Unfortunately, behind the scenes, Getty struggled with early-onset dementia. This made Friday night tapings stressful for her, but her co-stars and crew rallied to support her. Despite her struggles, Zimmerman emphasized that Getty always delivered her lines flawlessly, often nailing the scene’s final joke. Even though her condition worsened, her commitment to the show never faltered.

Zimmerman’s reflections offer a deeper appreciation for the beloved actress and the challenges she faced, adding even more depth to the legacy of The Golden Girls.