An Emmy-winning actress with a storied career spanning decades was spotted enjoying a rare public appearance in Los Angeles this week. The 79-year-old star, who began her professional journey in the mid-1960s, has worked alongside Hollywood legends like Rock Hudson and Peter Fonda.
Career Highlights and Iconic Roles
It is Susan Saint James, best known for her role as Sally McMillan in the NBC police procedural series McMillan & Wife, which aired from 1971 to 1976. Her performance in this detective show earned her both Golden Globe and Emmy nominations, solidifying her place in television history.
Her career took off after she signed with Universal Pictures at age 19, thanks to an agent connection. She made her debut in the 1966 TV film Fame Is The Name Of The Game, playing Peggy Chan. This led to her starring in the series Name Of The Game from 1968 to 1971, where she won an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.
Collaborations with Hollywood Greats
Over the years, Saint James has shared the screen with numerous celebrities. She appeared in episodes of It Takes A Thief with Robert Wagner and later starred in the 1977 film Outlaw Blues alongside Peter Fonda. Her versatility shone through in projects like the comedic horror movie Love At First Bite in 1979.
In the 1980s, she took on another major role as Kate McArdle in the CBS sitcom Kate & Allie, which ran from 1984 and earned her two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. This show followed two divorced mothers living together, showcasing her comedic timing and depth.
Recent Sightings and Personal Insights
During her rare outing in Los Angeles, Susan Saint James kept her style casual yet chic. She wore a black dress adorned with colorful floral details, paired with black flats and stylish sunglasses. Her hair was parted to the side, falling in natural waves past her shoulders, and she carried a green-striped purse for her errands.
Born in Los Angeles in August 1946, she started as a teenage model, spending over a year in France before returning to L.A. to pursue acting. Reflecting on her early days, she recalled in an interview with Yahoo Beauty how nervous she was during her first audition, but her quick reading landed her the part.
Legacy and Future Plans
After mostly stepping away from acting, Saint James has made occasional guest appearances, such as on Law & Order: SVU and Suits. Her last credit was in the series Upload, where she appeared in three episodes from 2020 to 2022. She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2008 and will celebrate her 80th birthday in August.
In interviews, she has shared her positive approach to aging, emphasizing the importance of staying active and informed. "I fight the good fight," she said, highlighting practices like yoga and sleep, and giving credit to her husband, Dick Ebersol, for support. Her career, marked by resilience and talent, continues to inspire fans and peers alike.
