Susan Saint James: Then & Now - See Her Life Today!

01 May, 2025

What happens when a star dims, yet their light continues to shine brightly through the memories and hearts of millions? Susan Saint James, a name synonymous with television excellence in the 60s, 70s, and 80s, proves that true talent and enduring grace never truly fade away.

From the glamorous sets of "McMillan & Wife" to the heartwarming camaraderie of "Kate & Allie," Susan Saint James graced our screens with an effortless charm and undeniable talent. This is a journey through her life, a life that has seen the highs of Hollywood stardom, the depths of personal loss, and the enduring warmth of family and a life of activism. At 78, her legacy is not just about the roles she played, but the woman she became.

Category	Details
Full Name	Susan Jane Miller (later known as Susan Saint James)
Date of Birth	August 14, 1946
Place of Birth	Los Angeles, California, USA
Raised in	Rockford, Illinois
Known For	Actress and Activist, Television work in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s
Notable Roles	Sally McMillan in "McMillan & Wife," Kate McArdle in "Kate & Allie," Peggy Maxwell in "The Name of the Game"
Marriages	Tom Lucas (makeup artist) Dick Ebersol (NBC executive)
Children	Harmony Lucas, Sunshine Lucas, Charlie Ebersol, Willie Ebersol, Teddy Ebersol
Awards and Recognition	Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actress ("The Name of the Game"), Numerous nominations and awards for volunteer work
Activism	Committed to the Special Olympics and other charitable causes.
Retirement	Retired from acting after the end of "Kate & Allie" in 1989
Current Status	Still captivating fans, and her legacy is timeless
Reference	IMDb

Her journey began in Los Angeles, born Susan Jane Miller on August 14, 1946, but her formative years were spent in Rockford, Illinois. Even as a young girl, the performing arts beckoned. This early spark of creativity would eventually ignite a career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on television history.

The Hollywood Studio Club, where she resided upon moving to Los Angeles, provided a haven for aspiring actresses. The club, founded by the iconic Mary Pickford, offered a supportive environment for young women navigating the often-challenging world of the entertainment industry. It was here, amidst the echoes of silent film legends, that Saint James began to forge her own path. Her journey to stardom was not without its challenges; the entertainment world requires resilience.

Susan Saint James's career truly flourished in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, a period often considered the golden age of television. Her captivating presence graced a multitude of shows, solidifying her status as a beloved television icon. The detective series "McMillan & Wife," where she played the witty and stylish Sally McMillan alongside Rock Hudson, brought her widespread fame. The on-screen chemistry between Saint James and Hudson was undeniable, their playful banter and genuine affection captivating audiences week after week. She later confided, when reflecting on the show's success, that kissing Rock Hudson "never felt like a hardship." The role of Sally McMillan was a defining moment for her, showcasing her ability to balance humor, drama, and sophistication with ease. This role, however, required that she face challenges that were not always easy for her.

Then came "Kate & Allie," the sitcom where Saint James co-starred with Jane Curtin, became a cultural touchstone for a generation. The show delved into the lives of two best friends raising their children after divorces, and it offered a poignant yet humorous portrayal of single motherhood and female friendship. It resonated deeply with audiences. Saint James's portrayal of Kate McArdle, a strong, independent, and often-hilarious mother, further cemented her place in television history. The series, which premiered in 1984, ran for six seasons and was a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of relatable characters. The chemistry between Saint James and Curtin was palpable, and their dynamic brought life to their characters.

Beyond her acting career, Susan Saint James demonstrated a commitment to her family and her values. She was previously married to makeup artist Tom Lucas, with whom she had a son, Harmony, and a daughter, Sunshine. Later, she married Dick Ebersol, chairman of NBC Universal Sports and NBC Olympics, with whom she had sons Charlie, Willie, and Teddy. The actress prioritized her family, a decision that ultimately led to her retirement from acting after "Kate & Allie" concluded in 1989. This decision to step away from the spotlight to be a present mother underscores her priorities.

However, the path of life, as with most, was not always easy. The loss of her youngest son, Teddy, in a plane crash was a heartbreaking tragedy that she had to endure, testing her strength and resilience. Yet, Saint James found solace in her family, and her grandchildren brought her renewed joy. This ability to find happiness again, even after experiencing profound loss, is a testament to her strength of character.

Her personal life was as eventful as her career. Saint James's marriage faced difficult times, but she and her husband worked to salvage it. Dick Ebersol was seriously injured in a plane crash in Colorado, the event which served as a test to their relationship. Through it all, they remained resilient. Saint James and Ebersol's love story, like any other, saw its share of ups and downs. They were able to maintain a marriage that transcended Hollywood.

Her activism also reflected a deep commitment to making a difference. She was recognized for her work, including her support of the Special Olympics. Saint James's dedication to these causes went beyond mere endorsement; she actively participated and lent her voice to raise awareness and support. Her work with the Special Olympics, along with that of the other organizations, recognized her dedication to the less fortunate. Her activism further underscores her character and principles.

The question of "What happened to Susan Saint James?" is easily answered: she chose a life beyond the screen. After "Kate & Allie," she retired, embracing the role of a devoted mother and grandmother. This was not a farewell, but a transition. It was a decision that allowed her to focus on her family and other passions.

The entertainment industry would evolve in the years after her departure. The roles she played, and the way she played them, would still influence future generations of actresses and television producers. Saint James's impact on television cannot be overstated. She received numerous awards, including an Emmy for her work on "The Name of the Game" and numerous nominations throughout her career. Her performances remain timeless, her charisma infectious, and her contributions to television history are undeniable.

In recent years, Saint James has made public appearances, including attending the premiere of the film "Suffragette" in New York City in 2015. The actress remains a reminder that Hollywood fame is only a small part of a well-lived life.

Susan Saint James, a star who has never truly faded, continues to remind us of the power of talent, resilience, and the enduring importance of family. Her legacy is not just etched in celluloid, but in the hearts of her fans, forever.

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