American actress known for her roles in soap operas, particularly as Claudia Whittaker on Knots Landing, and as Bree Davenport's mother on the Disney Channel series Kickin' It.
Kathleen Noone, born Kathleen O'Meara on January 8, 1945, is an American actress renowned for her iconic roles in daytime soap operas, including Ellen Shepherd Dalton on ABC's All My Children and Claudia Whittaker on CBS's Knots Landing.
Noone was born in Hillsdale, New Jersey, to a professional baseball player father. She graduated from the University of Miami and Southern Methodist University with a Master of Fine Arts degree, which paved the way for her off-Broadway performances.
Noone's television debut came in 1975 on CBS's As the World Turns, where she played Margaret Porter. However, it was her role as Ellen Shepherd Dalton on ABC's All My Children from 1977 to 1989 that solidified her status as a soap opera starlet.
Her portrayal of Ellen, a recently divorced mother, earned her a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 1987, as well as three Soap Opera Digest Awards nominations. Noone's character was a perfect foil to the notorious Erica Kane, played by Susan Lucci.
In 1990, Noone made the transition to prime time television, starring as the villainous Claudia Whittaker on CBS's Knots Landing from 1990 to 1993. She later returned to daytime television as Bette Katzenkazrahi on NBC's Sunset Beach from 1997 to 1999, earning another Daytime Emmy Award nomination.
Noone has also had recurring roles on various television shows, including L.A. Law, Party of Five, According to Jim, and Dexter.
Noone co-founded the Scott Repertory Theatre, the Globe Theatre in Texas, and the Colonnaides Theatre in New York City, where she co-produced and developed plays with Michael Lessac.
Kathleen Noone's extensive career has left an indelible mark on the world of soap operas and television. Her iconic characters have become a part of pop culture, and her contributions to the genre continue to inspire new generations of actors and actresses.
Noone's dedication to her craft and her ability to adapt to changing roles have cemented her place as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. As a testament to her enduring legacy, she continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.
