Image Source: People.com
Susan Saint James, the beloved actress best known for her roles in “Kate & Allie” and “McMillan & Wife,” has died at 80. Her family confirmed that she passed away Monday after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
A representative for the actress confirmed the news to People on Tuesday. In a heartfelt statement, her family remembered Saint James as a warm, generous woman who valued kindness, compassion and time spent helping others more than material success.
“She never met a stranger,” her family said, describing how every person Saint James encountered quickly became important to her. From fellow board members to employees in everyday shops, she had a natural ability to make people feel seen and heard.
A moving tribute to Susan Saint James
Her family said Saint James was “generous with her time and energy” and instinctively drawn to anyone who needed encouragement. They also praised her positive spirit, saying she brought “fire and positivity” to everything she did throughout her life.
Saint James is survived by her husband, Dick Ebersol, her four children — Sunshine Lucas, Harmony Lucas, Charlie Ebersol and Willie Ebersol — and seven grandchildren. Her beloved service dog, Lola, also survives her.
The actress was born Susan Jane Miller. She changed her last name to Saint James and moved to Hollywood at age 20 to pursue an acting career. After signing a weekly contract with Universal, she began appearing in films before establishing herself as a television star.
The remarkable television career of Susan Saint James
Saint James gained early recognition after joining the cast of “The Name of the Game” in 1968. Her performance earned her three Emmy nominations, and she won one award for the role.
In 1971, she joined “McMillan & Wife,” starring opposite Rock Hudson. Saint James played the wife in the popular series for five seasons and received three additional Emmy nominations. She later joked that her character’s death did not prevent Hudson’s character from quickly finding new romantic interests.
Her most iconic role came in 1984, when she was cast as Kate McArdle in the CBS sitcom “Kate & Allie.” The series followed two divorced best friends, played by Saint James and Jane Curtin, who moved in together with their children.
Although Saint James initially hesitated to accept the project, she said she could relate to the struggles of a divorced woman. The sitcom became a defining success and remained on television until 1989. Saint James received two more Emmy nominations for her work on the show.
A celebrated career beyond sitcoms
Alongside her television work, Saint James appeared in films including “Outlaw Blues” with Peter Fonda and “How to Beat the High Cost of Living” with Jane Curtin and Jessica Lange.
She stepped back from Hollywood near the end of the 1980s but later returned for appearances on “The Drew Carey Show,” “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and “Suits.” In 2008, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honoring her enduring contribution to television and entertainment.
In 1981, Saint James married NBC executive Dick Ebersol after meeting him while hosting “Saturday Night Live.” The couple had three sons: Charles, William and Edward, known as Teddy. Saint James also had two children, Sunshine and Harmony, from her marriage to makeup artist Tom Lucas.
Family, loss and a lasting legacy
Saint James and Ebersol endured a devastating loss in 2004 when a private jet crash in Colorado killed their 14-year-old son, Teddy, along with 13 other people. In later years, Saint James spoke about keeping his memory alive and cherishing the joyful moments their family shared.
Despite the tragedy, she continued to focus on family, gratitude and connection. In August, Saint James celebrated her 80th birthday with her children, grandchildren, Ebersol and close friends. Her family said the celebration, which included seeing the Doobie Brothers and a backyard gathering, was “one of the best two days of her entire life.”
Saint James leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances, especially as Kate McArdle, as well as a reputation for warmth and generosity. Her work continues to resonate with viewers who remember her as one of television’s most engaging and spirited stars.
Frequently asked questions
How did Susan Saint James die?
Susan Saint James died at age 80 after a battle with pancreatic cancer, according to a statement from her family reported by People.
What was Susan Saint James best known for?
She was best known for playing Kate McArdle in “Kate & Allie” and appearing as Sally McMillan in “McMillan & Wife.”
Was Susan Saint James married?
Yes. Her third and final marriage was to NBC executive Dick Ebersol, whom she married in 1981.
How many children did Susan Saint James have?
She had four children: Sunshine Lucas, Harmony Lucas, Charlie Ebersol and Willie Ebersol.
Did Susan Saint James win an Emmy?
Yes. She won an Emmy for “The Name of the Game” and received several additional nominations during her television career.
