Born in Reno, Nevada, Dawn Wells planned to become a doctor, majoring in chemistry atColumbia, Missouri, discovered the Drama Club and transferred to the University of Washington in Seattle to graduate with a degree in Theater. In 1959 she was crowned Miss Nevada and represented her state in the 1960 Miss America pageant. Moving to Hollywood, in 1961 she appeared in episodes of The Roaring 20's, Maverick, Cheyenne, Wagon Train, 77 Sunset Strip, The Detectives, Everglades! Surfside 6, and Tales of Wells Fargo. In 1964 she landed her signature role of Mary Ann Summers on CBS's Gilligan's Island.
Dawn Wells died at the age of 82 from causes related to COVID-19.



