Broadway Performer, Playwright And Author June Walker Rogers Dies At 97

In 1959, she made a comeback on Broadway, sharing the stage with Bert Lahr and Dick Van Dyke in “The Girls Against the Boys.” Later, she became known for her roles in prominent productions such as Tony Bennett’s “Guys & Dolls,” Orson Bean’s “Little Me,” Hal Linden’s “Bells are Ringing,” “Mame” by Rance Howard, and “Oklahoma,” among others.

As a lifestyle aficionado, I’ve had the privilege of gracing multiple stages, including regular appearances on Steve Allen’s and Jack Paar’s shows. Furthermore, I’ve been fortunate enough to perform for luminaries such as Jackie Gleason and Ed Sullivan. To top it off, I’ve even entertained Presidents Truman and Eisenhower at White House functions.

After having a family, she shifted her focus and embarked on a career as an author. Her works such as All American, The Dream on Royal Street, and the play Heidi (which was staged at the Ambassador Auditorium in Pasadena) aimed to enrich California’s cultural arts scene. Her 1986 book, How to Make It in Showbiz: A Survival Kit, has been a mandatory text in university theatre departments across the country.

She resided in Westport for a considerable period and was one of the initial members of Theatre Artists Workshop of Westport, alongside holding membership with the National League of American Pen Women.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d like to share a poignant story about the passing of June Walker Rogers, who was once married to the Tony-nominated lyricist, composer, and actor, David Rogers. After spending nearly half a century together, David sadly passed away at the age of 50. June is survived by her family, which includes Dulcy (my friend Diedrich Bader’s wife), Amanda (ex-wife of Groucho Marx impersonator Frank Ferrante), and their grandchildren – Lucy, Sebastian, Dashiell, and Ondine. This close-knit family continues to forge ahead through life’s journey, honoring the beautiful memories they shared with David.