Susan Saint James, Star of ‘Kate & Allie’ and ‘McMillan & Wife,’ Dies at 80

Susan Saint James, the charismatic actress who captivated audiences in productions like ‘McMillan & Wife’ and the popular ‘Kate & Allie,’ died Monday in Los Angeles at the age of 80. The news, confirmed by a representative to People and reported by Variety, comes after her diagnosis with pancreatic cancer. Saint James left an indelible mark on television, not only for her performances but also for her advocacy and deep connection to her family.

A Distinguished Career in Television

Born Susan Jane Miller in Los Angeles on August 14, 1946, Saint James grew up in Rockford, Illinois, before embarking on a successful career in modeling and acting. Her entry into television in the late 1960s quickly established her as a prominent figure. In NBC's anthology drama ‘The Name of the Game,’ she played research assistant Peggy Maxwell, a role that earned her three Emmy nominations and a win for outstanding supporting actress in a drama series in 1969, according to Variety.

Subsequently, between 1971 and 1976, she starred alongside Rock Hudson in the series ‘McMillan & Wife,’ where she portrayed Sally McMillan, the wife of a San Francisco police commissioner. This performance garnered her three additional Emmy nominations, solidifying her reputation as one of the most recognized actresses of her generation.

The Success of ‘Kate & Allie’

In 1984, Susan Saint James returned to television in the CBS family dramedy ‘Kate & Allie.’ In this production, she shared the screen with Jane Curtin, playing two divorced mothers who decide to raise their children together in a Manhattan apartment. The series was a hit, running for six seasons and earning Saint James two more Emmy nominations.

Although she largely retired from Hollywood after ‘Kate & Allie’ concluded in 1989, she made occasional guest appearances on shows such as NBC’s ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’ and USA Network’s ‘Suits,’ as reported by Variety.

Beyond the Screen: A Life for Family and Causes

Outside the spotlight, Susan Saint James led a life dedicated to her family and important causes. She was married for 45 years to Dick Ebersol, a longtime NBC executive. Her personal life was also marked by profound tragedy: in 2004, her 14-year-old son Teddy died in a plane crash in Colorado. Saint James’s strength during that time was remarkable.

In a statement shared with People, her family described her as a person with immense generosity in her time and energy. They explained that she was drawn to whoever needed lifting up and taught her children to be kind and look out for other people. Her family also recalled how, weeks after Teddy's death, she delivered his eulogy as a note to her other children and her husband, offering them words to heal. Even in her deepest grief, she put everyone else first, according to the same statement.

In addition to her acting career, Saint James was a fervent advocate for the Special Olympics for many years, demonstrating her commitment to inclusion and support for people with intellectual disabilities.

Legacy and Recognition

Susan Saint James's legacy was recognized in 2008 when she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to her lasting impact on the entertainment industry. She is survived by her husband, Dick Ebersol, her four children, and seven grandchildren. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her and the millions of fans who enjoyed her talent and warmth on screen.

Why it matters

The death of Susan Saint James marks the farewell to an actress whose television work defined several decades. Her performances not only earned her awards and critical acclaim but also made her a part of many families' homes. Her story is a reminder of how public figures can go beyond entertainment to impact people's lives through their humanity and social commitment.