Estelle Getty performed comedy.
Estelle Getty ( née Scher ; also known as Estelle Gettleman ; July 25 , 1923 -- July 22 , 2008 ) was an American actress and comedian , who appeared in film , television , and theatre . She was best known for her role as Sophia Petrillo on The Golden Girls from 1985 to 1992 , which won her an Emmy and a Golden Globe , on The Golden Palace from 1992 to 1993 , and on Empty Nest from 1993 to 1995 .