Susan Saint James Passes Away at 80

Actress Susan Saint James, known for her endearing role in “Kate & Allie,” has sadly passed away at the age of 80 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

Saint James gained significant acclaim for her performance alongside Jane Curtin in the popular series “Kate & Allie,” which aired from 1984 to 1989. The show portrayed the lives of two divorced women living together and supporting each other through various ups and downs.

In addition to her role in “Kate & Allie,” Saint James also charmed viewers in the series “McMillan & Wife,” enjoying a successful five-season run.

A representative for the actress expressed heartfelt sentiments, stating, “She never met a stranger. Every person she met became the most important person in the room at that moment.” This sentiment reflects the warmth she shared with everyone around her.

The tribute continued to highlight her resilience, noting how she faced life’s challenges, including her personal tragedies. Remarkably, after losing her youngest son, Teddy, in a tragic plane crash in 2004, she delivered his eulogy with words meant to comfort and heal her family. “Even in the deepest grief of her life, she put everyone else first,” the rep shared.

Her bright spirit and positive attitude were evident throughout her life. “She brought that same fire and positivity to everything that followed, and never lost it,” the statement concluded.

Growing up, Saint James had a love for movies that eventually translated into a successful career in acting. She landed her first significant role in “Where Angels Go, Trouble Follows” in 1968, which then led to her part in “The Name of the Game.” This role garnered her three Emmy nominations, one of which she won.

By 1971, she had taken on the role in “McMillan & Wife,” which earned her additional Emmy nominations. Some of her other film credits include “Outlaw Blues,” “Love at First Bite,” and “How to Beat the High Cost of Living.”

After stepping back from Hollywood at the close of the 1980s, she returned for guest appearances on shows such as “The Drew Carey Show,” “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” and “Suits.” In 2008, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, marking her contributions to the entertainment industry.

Beyond acting, Saint James co-owned WZBG Radio in Litchfield, Connecticut, and established Seedling & Pip, a store specializing in baby gifts and books. In her later years, she pursued education in gardening and passionately supported the Special Olympics.

Susan Saint James is survived by her husband, Dick Ebersol, her four children—Sunshine Lucas, Harmony Lucas, Charlie Ebersol, and Willie Ebersol—and her seven grandchildren. She is also remembered fondly by her sister, Mary Mercedes Dewey, and her cherished service dog, Lola.