Susan Saint James, star of ‘Kate & Allie,’ passes away at 80

Susan Saint James, the distinguished actress best known for her roles in the acclaimed television series “McMillan & Wife” and “Kate & Allie,” has passed away at the age of 80 following a battle with pancreatic cancer. Reports from a media source indicate that she died on a recent Monday, leaving behind a legacy of beloved characters that had a lasting impact on American television.

Saint James initially gained fame in 1968 when she portrayed the role of Peggy Maxwell, a research assistant, on the NBC series “The Name of the Game.” Her performance earned her a Primetime Emmy Award in 1969, marking her ascent as a prominent star on the small screen. Following this success, she became a household name for her portrayal of Sally McMillan, the spirited wife of Rock Hudson’s character in “McMillan & Wife,” which aired from 1971 to 1976. In this role, she showcased her remarkable talent and charisma, captivating audiences and solidifying her place in television history.

After leaving “McMillan & Wife”—in part due to a contract dispute that led her character to be written off in a tragic plane crash—Saint James found renewed success in the popular CBS sitcom “Kate & Allie,” which ran from 1984 to 1989. Her comedic chemistry with co-star Jane Curtin garnered critical acclaim and added another hit to her already impressive resume.

Beyond her acting career, Saint James was known for her warm personality and charitable endeavors, particularly her long-standing involvement with the Special Olympics. Off-camera, she was married to Dick Ebersol, a former executive at NBC known for producing “Saturday Night Live.” The couple faced immense personal tragedy in 2004 when they lost their 14-year-old son, Teddy, in a private plane crash in Colorado.

Throughout her life, Saint James was surrounded by family, including her four children, Sunshine Lucas, Harmony Lucas, Charlie Ebersol, and Willie Ebersol, as well as seven grandchildren. Her beloved service dog, Lola, was also a cherished companion.

Throughout her career, Susan Saint James not only entertained millions but also inspired those around her with her resilience and dedication to family and service. Following her departure from Hollywood, she dedicated much of her time to her family and charitable work, leaving an indelible mark on both her audiences and community.

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