Barbara Mandrell Biography

Photo Courtesy of Artist

Barbara Mandrell has everything. She really does. In this chaotic world where we strive to juggle career, family and spirituality, this superstar is managing to do just that. But don't hate her for it -- she's worked hard through life's trials to create a loving and supportive atmosphere in which to raise her children, to be a good wife, and of course to be a high-quality performer and nurture her ever-evolving entertainment career.

Few performers of any genre ever attain the across-the-board celebrity that Mandrell has. In her 30+ years as a performer, she has been the recipient of over 75 major awards, starred in her own top-rated variety show, released over 30 albums and sent scores of songs for a ride up both the Country and Pop charts.

Mandrell's appeal is so far reaching that her 1990 autobiography Get To The Heart: My Story appeared on the New York Times Best Seller List after only four days, and then remained there for six months. In late 1997, CBS aired a two-hour made-for-television movie based on Mandrell's life story, "Get To the Heart, My Story: The Barbara Mandrell Story." A&E followed the overwhelming response to the movie by featuring Mandrell's exceptional story in "Biography" in April 1998. She has pitched Stouffers, Lean Cuisine, No Nonsense Hosiery and Sunsweet Prunes to millions of American homes, and continues to grace the covers of national magazines regularly. Mandrell is both country woman and glamorous star; a working wife and mother that just happens to be a stellar entertainer, and someone you could feel comfortable with around your own kitchen table.

Mandrell enjoys an extraordinary and varied television career. She has starred in her own NBC series and in specials for HBO, CBS and TNN; hosted programs from The Tonight Show to the People's Choice Awards, and made guest appearances on a countless string of shows -- from the Barbara Walters Special and Larry King Live to Hee Haw. Barbara is certainly universal and enduring; hers is one of the most recognizable faces of today and has been for most of her public life.

Though music had always been Barbara?s mainstay, other entertainment forums appealed to her. After a guest appearance on "The Commish" sparked her interest in 1994, she began seeking other dramatic roles. Barbara has since appeared on "Touched By An Angel," "Baywatch," "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman," "Diagnosis, Murder," "Love Boat: The Next Wave," and maintained a recurring role as Alex Mitchum on Aaron Spelling?s "Sunset Beach." In September 1997, CBS premiered "Get To The Heart: The Barbara Mandrell Story," a Movie of the Week based on Barbara Mandrell?s life story, and in 1999, Mandrell starred in the NBC Movie of the Week, "The Wrong Girl." In 2000, Mandrell co-starred in "Stolen From The Heart" with Tracey Gold, as well as "Walker, Texas Ranger."

Barbara Mandrell is a true star in the very best sense of the word. A career this far reaching could prove to be heady stuff for some, but through faith and grounded good sense, Mandrell has managed to embrace all that is good about her public life without letting go of the good in her family life. A true star, yes, and an evolving woman, too. She may have everything, but she gives the gift of her talent to her fans unselfishly.