SOUTHBURY, CONN. - Actress, singer and businesswomnan Polly Bergen has died at her home at the age of 84.

She won an Emmy in 1957 for her portrayal of the alcoholic torch singer Helen Morgan and was nominated for another 50 years later for her role on the television show “Desperate Housewives.”

Ms. Bergen’s career highlights included her performance in the 1962 film “Cape Fear,” five years as a panelist on the game show “To Tell the Truth” and a Tony-nominated performance as a gritty former showgirl in the 2001 revival of the Stephen Sondheim musical “Follies.”

As a teenager, she began her career singing hillbilly songs on the radio and quickly found roles in movies. (Source: New York Times)

Story Date: September 24, 2014