Barbara Hamilton (11 December 1926– 7 February 1996) was a Canadian actress in film, television, theatre and radio. After studies at Brockville Collegiate Institute, she attended the University of Toronto where her early performances were featured at the Hart House Theatre. She is known for roles in films and television series such as Road to Avonlea. Her theatre performances have included the Spring Thaw review. She is also known for originating the role of Marilla Cuthbert in both the Canadian and West End productions of Anne of Green Gables. Hamilton died as a result of breast cancer in 1996 at the age of 69. That year, the Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts established the Barbara Hamilton Award to honour those who demonstrate excellence in the performing arts. Filmography Awards and recognition Earle Grey Award (1993) References External links Barbara Hamilton at Northern Stars 1926 births Burials at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Toronto 1996 deaths Actresses from Kingston, Ontario Actresses from Toronto Canadian film actresses Canadian television actresses Canadian stage actresses Canadian voice actresses Deaths from cancer in Ontario Deaths from breast cancer University of Toronto alumni 20th-century Canadian actresses Canadian Comedy Award winners