Overview

Lynn Borden was an American actress who built a steady career as a character performer in television and film. Born March 24, 1937, she became widely recognized for joining the cast of the sitcom Hazel in its final season. Her work exemplified the reliable supporting players who sustained many popular shows during television's classic era.

Early life and background

Borden was born in Detroit. Although details of her training and early stage work are less widely reported, she followed the common path of mid‑20th‑century actors who moved between theatre, film and the expanding medium of television. Her reputation was that of a versatile performer able to take on comedies and dramas in guest and recurring parts.

Notable role: Hazel

She is best known for the role of Barbara Baxter on the family sitcom Hazel. The series originally aired on NBC beginning in 1961 before moving to CBS for its final season (1965–1966), when Borden joined the show. Her portrayal placed her among a cast led by Shirley Booth, contributing to a program that remains associated with 1960s American television comedy.

Career and screen presence

Across the 1960s and subsequent decades Borden worked mainly in television, appearing in a variety of guest‑starring and supporting film roles. She typified the dependable character actress — someone producers could call on to play neighbors, friends, and other supporting figures who give shape to episodic storytelling. Her career showcases the importance of recurring and guest performers to network programming of the period.

Death and legacy

Lynn Borden died on March 3, 2015, in Encino, Los Angeles, after an illness. Remembered by fans of classic television, she is cited as an example of actors whose steady contributions helped define mid‑century American sitcoms and dramatic series. Her work continues to be of interest to viewers and researchers exploring television history.