By Sue Danielson
Jan 28, 2021
(Undated) -- Cloris Leachman, a Des Moines native who went on to a lifetime career in show business has died at the age of 94. Leachman performed in theater, movies, and TV. She won an Oscar for her role in "The Last Picture Show," and eight prime time Emmys. She had 22 Emmy nominations.
Leachman was likely best known for her role as Phyllis Lindstrom, the nosy neighbor on the Mary Tyler Moore TV Show. Another role Leachman portrayed Frau Blucher the Mel Brooks comedy movie classic "Young Frankenstein."
Leachman returned to Roosevelt High School on several occasions to talk with students. Roosevelt's stage and auditorium are named in her honor. Des Moines Roosevelt Drama Teacher Micheal Davenport says her career has been inspirational to his students. He says she was known for her comedic roles, but could do anything.