The news of Betty White’s death on New Year’s Eve stunned America. Everybody had thought the actress would live forever. She was close to blowing out her hundred birthday candles on January 17th which the iconic actress was planning on hosting her birthday on the big screen for one day only. Producers Steven Boettcher and Mike Trinklein were excited to celebrate with White on her special day and were devastated when they heard the announcement of her passing.

To fans, White will always be remembered as Sue Ann Nivens from The Mary Tyler Moore Show or her most iconic role in The Golden Girls as kindhearted Rose Nylund, the roommate to Dorothy Zbornak, Blanche Devereaux, and Lily Lindstrom.

Recently over on The Hollywood Reporter, Betty White’s close friend Steven Boettcher had this to say about his friendship with White: “In one of the interviews, Betty talked about how she felt she was your favorite aunt that was kindly invited into your living room once a week, whether she was on Hot in Cleveland or The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” 

White had that warming presents that audiences could relate at home. She was that person that made families laugh on the small screen. She also made the audience laugh when she starred alongside Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock in the 2009 film The Proposal. Reynolds praised White for her experience in front of the camera. Bullock also praised White for being incredibly hilarious.

Despite her recent passing in late December 2021, the plans for White’s 100th birthday celebration still haven’t changed. The film commemorating her life’s work will still premiere in selective theatres on Monday, January 17, 2022, now titled Betty White: A Celebration.