Donna Douglas was born "Doris Smith" in Baywood, Louisiana,
on September 26. She does not divulge her exact age. Unlike the other cast
members, Douglas shared a great deal with her character Elly May. Like
Elly, Douglas was a tomboy who grew up with a great respect for nature
and animals. She spent her teen years cheerleading and winning beauty contests.
She was named Miss New Orleans in 1957 and appeared as the Letters Girl
on "The Perry Como Show" and a Billboard Girl on "The Steve Allen Show."
Douglas was extremely proud of The Beverly Hillbillies and her role
as Elly May and is still known to do public appearances in her Hillbilly
garb. She is also an accomplished gospel singer.