Susan Saint James: The Iconic Actress and Activist

A Legacy of Laughter and Intrigue

Susan Saint James is a household name, synonymous with her iconic roles in television during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. She is perhaps best known for her starring roles in the detective series McMillan & Wife (1971-1976) and the sitcom Kate & Allie (1984-1989), which catapulted her to fame and earned her a permanent place in the hearts of audiences everywhere.

Early Life and Career

Born Susan Jane Miller on August 14, 1946, in Los Angeles, California, to a Connecticut family, Saint James was raised in Rockford, Illinois, where she began modeling as a teenager. She attended the Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart in Lake Forest, Illinois, and later Connecticut College. Her first screen role was in the TV movie Fame Is the Name of the Game (1966) with Tony Franciosa, which launched her career when it became a series two years later.

Rise to Fame

Saint James's early television appearances included two episodes of the first season of Ironside (1967) and a supporting role in Where Angels Go, Trouble Follows (1968), the sequel to The Trouble with Angels. Her breakout role came when she played research assistant Peggy Maxwell in The Name of the Game (1968-1971), earning her an Emmy Award in 1969 and establishing her as a popular young actress.

McMillan & Wife and Beyond

Saint James's starring role as Sally McMillan in McMillan & Wife (1971-1976) solidified her position as a leading lady in television. Her chemistry with co-star Rock Hudson, who played her husband Steve McMillan, captivated audiences and earned her two Emmy nominations. She continued to make appearances in various TV shows and films throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including The Love Boat, Murder, She Wrote, and Fatal Vision.

Kate & Allie and Legacy

Saint James's portrayal of Kate McBride in the sitcom Kate & Allie (1984-1989) earned her three Emmy nominations and cemented her status as a comedy legend. The show's focus on the lives of two single mothers living together with their children was groundbreaking for its time, and Saint James's chemistry with co-star Jane Curtin remains unforgettable.

Awards and Honors

• Emmy Award for Outstanding Single Performance by a Lead Actress in a Drama (1969)
• Three Emmy nominations for McMillan & Wife (1972, 1974, 1976)
• Three Emmy nominations for Kate & Allie (1985, 1986, 1987)

Personal Life and Activism

Saint James has been married to her husband, Dick Ebersol, since 1981. She is a dedicated philanthropist and advocate for various causes, including the environment, women's rights, and children's welfare. In recent years, she has become involved in several charitable organizations, including the National Park Foundation and the Women's Media Center.

Legacy and Impact

Susan Saint James's contributions to television and film have left an indelible mark on popular culture. Her iconic roles and dedication to social causes have inspired generations of actors and activists alike. As a testament to her enduring legacy, she was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 2010.