(born 1911); d.1989 After years as a minor movie actor, Ball and husband Desi Arnaz (1917–86) changed television comedy through their long-running hit sitcom I Love Lucy (1951–7) and further 1-hour shows. As a starring female comedian, Ball’s rebellious streak and marvelous ingenuity for complicating the lives of her ensemble cast (including her pioneering onscreen pregnancy) delightfully controverted stereotypes of meek housewives. The couple also pioneered control of production and syndication through their Desilu Studios, which Ball took over after her divorce (1960). Desilu produced Lucy shows, as well as other hits like The Untouchables.