Estelle Scher-Gettleman (July 25, 1923 – July 22, 2008), was an American actress, who appeared in film, television, and theater. She is 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.