Gunilla Hutton — Biography
Gunilla Hutton, a Swedish-American artist known for her talent in acting, singing, and performing, has been a fixture in the entertainment world since the mid-1960s. She is particularly recognized for her contributions to popular television series like Petticoat Junction, Hee Haw, and Love American Style.
Born in Gothenburg, Sweden, in 1944, Gunilla and her family relocated to the United States when she was just three years old. Her formative years were spent in California, where she pursued her passion for drama and music at San Jose State University. Upon completing her studies, she ventured to Hollywood, securing roles in various television programs, including appearances on Bewitched as Samantha’s cousin, The Flying Nun, and The Monkees.
Her breakthrough came with the role of Billie Jo Bradley on Petticoat Junction, a part she held from 1968 to 1970. It is noted, as detailed in her autobiography by her daughter Natalie Cole, that she was the long-time companion of singer Nat 'King' Cole. Her life and career were also featured in the 2016 book "X Child Stars: Where Are They Now?" by Kathy Garver and Fred Ascher. Gunilla did not attend Nat 'King' Cole's funeral or memorial service. Prior to her move to California, she attended Arlington Heights High School in Fort Worth, Texas. Her husband was an officer in the U.S. Air Force.
While the biography lists a role as Billie Joe Bradley on the TV series Petticoat Junction (1963) for 34 episodes from 1965 to 1966, a more prominent role as Billie Jo Bradley on the same show is noted from 1968 to 1970. After her high school graduation, she embarked on her professional journey as a singer and actor. Her daughter is married to James Vanderbilt. In 1969, Gunilla married actor and musician David Hooks; they had two children together before their divorce in 1972.
In 1971, Gunilla became a regular performer on the country-western variety show Hee Haw, remaining with the program until 1993. She took on the role of its sole female host from 1986 to 1989. During this time, she also made guest appearances on other television shows such as Love American Style and Mama’s Family. Beyond her acting endeavors, Gunilla has released several albums showcasing her distinct country-western vocal style. Her latest album, "The Best Of…," released in 2010, compiles her most celebrated hits alongside new material. Gunilla continues to captivate audiences with live performances across the U.S., Europe, and Canada, celebrating her vocal artistry and the classic country-western tunes from her Hee Haw era that
Born in Gothenburg, Sweden, in 1944, Gunilla and her family relocated to the United States when she was just three years old. Her formative years were spent in California, where she pursued her passion for drama and music at San Jose State University. Upon completing her studies, she ventured to Hollywood, securing roles in various television programs, including appearances on Bewitched as Samantha’s cousin, The Flying Nun, and The Monkees.
Her breakthrough came with the role of Billie Jo Bradley on Petticoat Junction, a part she held from 1968 to 1970. It is noted, as detailed in her autobiography by her daughter Natalie Cole, that she was the long-time companion of singer Nat 'King' Cole. Her life and career were also featured in the 2016 book "X Child Stars: Where Are They Now?" by Kathy Garver and Fred Ascher. Gunilla did not attend Nat 'King' Cole's funeral or memorial service. Prior to her move to California, she attended Arlington Heights High School in Fort Worth, Texas. Her husband was an officer in the U.S. Air Force.
While the biography lists a role as Billie Joe Bradley on the TV series Petticoat Junction (1963) for 34 episodes from 1965 to 1966, a more prominent role as Billie Jo Bradley on the same show is noted from 1968 to 1970. After her high school graduation, she embarked on her professional journey as a singer and actor. Her daughter is married to James Vanderbilt. In 1969, Gunilla married actor and musician David Hooks; they had two children together before their divorce in 1972.
In 1971, Gunilla became a regular performer on the country-western variety show Hee Haw, remaining with the program until 1993. She took on the role of its sole female host from 1986 to 1989. During this time, she also made guest appearances on other television shows such as Love American Style and Mama’s Family. Beyond her acting endeavors, Gunilla has released several albums showcasing her distinct country-western vocal style. Her latest album, "The Best Of…," released in 2010, compiles her most celebrated hits alongside new material. Gunilla continues to captivate audiences with live performances across the U.S., Europe, and Canada, celebrating her vocal artistry and the classic country-western tunes from her Hee Haw era that
