Mary Tyler Moore and the cast of the now classic TV sitcom, “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” took the stage at the TV Academy in North Hollywood. The cast was there to celebrate Betty White’s 60 year television career. That career includes White’s time on their show. “I have many memories of her and hopes for the future and many more,” said Mary Tyler Moore. “She is an eclectic lady and she is a renaissance woman,” said Edward Asner, cast member of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” “John Denver said that Tina Turner showed women how to dance in heels, you know? I said, ‘Betty White shows us how to be a star,’” said Valerie Harper, cast member of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” “I don’t know what she’s been drinking, but I’m going to get some more for her!” said Betty White. Gavin MacLeod, also of the “Mary Tyler Moore Show” declared his friend a national treasure. “There’s something about Betty White, no matter what role she plays, you’re intrigued,” said MacLeod. The Academy looked back on Betty’s long career, from her earliest work in television, to her long-running role on “The Golden Girls.” White, 84, also revealed you’ll be seeing her again this fall for another episode of “Boston Legal.” When asked if she thought she would ever be this busy at her age, White said she didn’t think she would, but she loves it. “I guess I can’t say no. Maybe that’s it. Mother always told me to say no,” said White.

While I realize that Betty White has enjoyed a very long career in TV and in movies I cannot see her anything other than Rose Nylund. Sorry, can’t happen. I remember seeing her in that horrible movie Lake Placid and when she started cussing I almost went into fits! No, she is Rose Nylund and that is that. BUT … I think it’s amazing that the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences decided to pay tribute to Betty White’s other television accomplishments. This is absolutely the way it ought to be … let’s honor the folks we love so much in life and not wait until they pass away to offer heartfelt condolences. I hope that Betty will enjoy many more years of TV stardom and that this is just the beginning of another new chapter in her life :) Much congrats and love!!!

[Photo credit: Wireimage; Source]