B.D. Hyman: Unveiling The Life Of Bette Davis's Daughter, Author, And Pastor

In the annals of Hollywood history, few names resonate with the power and mystique of Bette Davis. A titan of the silver screen, her life was as dramatic off-camera as it was on. Yet, beyond the glare of the spotlight on the legendary actress, lies the compelling story of her first child, Barbara Davis Hyman, widely known as B.D. Hyman. More than just the daughter of a film icon, B.D. Hyman has carved out her own distinct path as an American author and pastor, navigating a life marked by both profound personal revelations and a deep spiritual calling. Her journey offers a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of familial relationships, the enduring power of memoir, and the transformative nature of faith.

Early Life and the Shadow of Stardom

Born Barbara Davis Sherry on May 1, 1947, in Santa Ana, California, B.D. Hyman entered the world as the daughter of two notable figures: the incomparable film star Bette Davis and her third husband, artist William Grant Sherry. As the first child of the legendary Bette Davis, her early life was undoubtedly unique, touched by the glamour and intensity that surrounded her famous mother. Within the family, she was affectionately known as "Bede," a personal touch that hints at a more intimate side of her upbringing before her life became a subject of public scrutiny.

Her birth date and place are clearly documented, establishing her as a native Californian. Being the eldest child of a film star like Bette Davis would naturally place her under a certain level of public interest from a young age, a dynamic that would profoundly shape her future. While the early years might have been characterized by the protective embrace of a "beloved daughter," the narrative of her life would later unfold to reveal a more complex and at times, contentious relationship with her famous parent.

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The Pen and the Public Eye: "My Mother's Keeper"

A Controversial Memoir That Rocked Hollywood

It was in 1985 that B.D. Hyman stepped firmly into the public consciousness, not just as Bette Davis's daughter, but as a controversial author. That year, she published her memoir, a book titled My Mother's Keeper. The release of this book sent shockwaves through Hollywood and deeply affected Bette Davis herself. Far from a loving tribute, the memoir contained what were described as "vile accusations" against her mother. Hyman alleged that Davis was a "bullying, alcoholic mother," painting a starkly different picture from the glamorous and formidable persona Bette Davis projected to the world.

The timing of the book's release added another layer of controversy: it was published on Mother's Day. This particular detail amplified the perceived betrayal and bitterness, making the accusations even more poignant and public. My Mother's Keeper became a significant cultural moment, sparking widespread debate about celebrity families, the nature of memory, and the boundaries of filial loyalty. For B.D. Hyman, it was an act of telling her truth, a narrative that profoundly contrasted with the public's idealized image of her iconic mother. This memoir remains one of the most defining aspects of B.D. Hyman's public identity, forever linking her to the raw, unfiltered account of her upbringing under the wing of one of Hollywood's most formidable figures.

A Spiritual Calling: From Author to Pastor

Embracing a Path of Faith and Teaching

While My Mother's Keeper brought B.D. Hyman widespread notoriety, it represents only one facet of her multifaceted life. Parallel to her career as an author, B.D. Hyman also embraced a profound spiritual calling, becoming an American pastor. Her journey into ministry is rooted in a deep personal transformation, as she is identified as "born-again." This spiritual rebirth led her to a vocation where she feels "called of the Lord to teach God’s Word."

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Her approach to explaining the Scriptures is described as "straight-forward," a style that makes the complex truths of the Bible "easy to understand and brings the truth alive." This direct and accessible method suggests a desire to connect with people on a fundamental level, making spiritual teachings relatable and impactful. In a life that has seen its share of public drama and personal struggle, her dedication to teaching God's Word represents a commitment to a different kind of truth—one rooted in faith and spiritual guidance. This pastoral role showcases a significant shift in her life's focus, moving from recounting personal grievances to sharing divine wisdom, offering a compelling contrast to the controversies of her past.

B.D. Hyman in Popular Culture

The enduring fascination with Bette Davis and her dramatic life has occasionally brought B.D. Hyman's story back into the public eye. Notably, in the television series Feud, which chronicled the legendary rivalry between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford during the filming of What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?, a young version of B.D. Hyman (born Barbara Davis Sherry) was portrayed by actress Kiernan Shipka. This portrayal offered viewers a glimpse into the domestic life of Bette Davis during a pivotal period in her career, reminding audiences of the daughter who would later share her own version of their shared history. While brief, these portrayals underscore the lasting impact of her story and her unique position within Hollywood's most famous families.

Conclusion: A Life of Contrasts

B.D. Hyman's life is a compelling tapestry woven with threads of celebrity lineage, personal revelation, and profound spiritual devotion. Born as Barbara Davis Sherry, the first child of the iconic Bette Davis, she initially existed within the formidable shadow of her mother's fame. Her controversial memoir, My Mother's Keeper, published in 1985, undeniably defined a significant public chapter of her life, revealing a raw and challenging account of her relationship with her legendary parent. Yet, beyond the headlines and the literary uproar, B.D. Hyman has also forged a distinct identity as a dedicated pastor, committed to teaching God's Word with a straightforward approach that resonates with many. From the daughter of a Hollywood legend to a controversial author and then to a devoted spiritual leader, B.D. Hyman's journey is a testament to a life lived on her own terms, marked by both public scrutiny and a deep personal calling.