Happy Birthday Dawn Wells

Happy Birthday wishes go out to Dawn Wells who turns 70 years old today. Dawn Elberta Wells was born in Reno, Nevada. Dawn originally wanted to be a doctor and went to the elite Stephens College in Columbia Missouri. After discovering the drama club, Dawn transferred to the to the University of Washington where she graduated in 1960 with a BA in theatre arts. In 1959, Dawn was crowned "Miss Nevada" and represented her state in the 1960 Miss America pageant in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Dawn was married to talent agent Larry Rosen from 1962-1967. She has no children.

Dawn started her acting career with guest spots on "77 Sunset Strip", "Maverick", and "Bonanza". Dawn is probably best know for her role as Mary Ann in the sitcom "Gilligans Island". She played Mary Ann for three seasons.

Since "Gilligan's Island", Dawn has performed in over 66 theatrical productions including the National Touring Company of "They're Playing Our Song", "Love Letters" and "The Vagina Monologues". Dawn has also produced a number of TV movies.

Dawn has also been a successful business woman. She has founded the "Dawn Wells Film Actors Boot Camp in Diggs, Idaho, which assists trained actors in the tranistion from amatuer to professional acting. She is also a highly requested speaker and college instructor.

Dawn also has her own line of clothing, "Wishing Wells Collections" for the physically challenged.

Dawn was in the news recently after being arrested for possession of marijuana and driving under the influence. She paid a fine for the DUI and was placed on 6 months probation.