Welles Family Genealogy & History

Orson Welles, an iconic American director, actor, and writer, is celebrated for his groundbreaking work in film, radio, and theatre. Renowned for his innovative style, Welles is best known for directing and starring in the cinematic masterpiece "Citizen Kane" (1941). His achievements include the controversial radio broadcast of "The War of the Worlds" (1938) and acclaimed films such as "The Magnificent Ambersons" and "Touch of Evil." Welles received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award and the AFI Life Achievement Award, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest filmmakers of all time.

Born in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Orson Welles was the son of Richard Head Welles, an inventor, and Beatrice Ives Welles, a concert pianist. Despite their affluence, Welles faced challenges after his parents separated, with his father's alcoholism and his mother's untimely death in 1924. His musical aspirations were influenced by his mother's background, but he ceased pursuing music after her passing. Welles's ancestry includes Kenosha attorney Orson S. Head and his brother George Head.

Gwen Welles, originally born as Gwen Goldberg on March 4, 1951, was a talented American actress recognized for her significant contributions to the film industry. Welles gained acclaim for her role as Sueleen Gay in Robert Altman's 1975 film "Nashville," earning a BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Her film debut was in "A Safe Place" (1971), and she worked on several other notable projects, including "California Split" (1974) and films directed by Henry Jaglom like "New Year's Day" (1989) and "Eating" (1990). Welles was also known for her dedication to yoga and meditation.

Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Gwen Welles was the daughter of clothing designer Rebecca Welles and Barton Goldberg. She had two sisters, Elizabeth (Betsy) Goldberg Welles and Lori Yarom. The family background provided a creative environment, with her mother involved in the fashion industry.

Rebecca Welles, born Reba Tassell, was a prominent American television and film actress active from 1951 to 1964. Known for her diverse roles, Welles appeared in about 50 TV shows, including notable series like "77 Sunset Strip," "Gunsmoke," and "Alfred Hitchcock Presents." She gained recognition for her five appearances on "Perry Mason," where she played various characters, including defendants and murderers. Welles also starred in films such as "Good Morning, Miss Dove" and "Desire Under the Elms," showcasing her versatile acting skills. Her career kicked off with a notable performance in "Studio One," which led to her becoming the inspiration for an episode of "Big Town."

Rebecca Welles's sibling was Gustave Tassell, a fashion designer. She was married to Barton Goldberg, with whom she had two daughters, including actress Gwen Welles. After their divorce, she married television director Don Weis in 1961.

Terri Welles, born Terri Knepper on November 21, 1956, in Santa Monica, California, is an American actress and adult model renowned for her prominent association with Playboy. She gained fame as a cover model in May 1980 and later became the Playmate of the Year in 1981. Welles further cemented her legacy in the modeling world by inspiring the "Bobo Weller" character in the film Star 80. Her career extended into the digital realm in 1997 when she launched an online business featuring her images, which led to a notable legal case, Playboy Enterprises, Inc. v. Welles. This case set a precedent for the nominative use of trademarks, favoring Welles.