Susan Saint James, the Emmy-winning actress whose presence defined several eras of television comedy and drama, died on Monday, October 26, 2026. She was 80 years old. Her representative confirmed her passing, noting that the cause of death was pancreatic cancer.
Saint James was widely recognized for her starring roles in hit series such as “McMillan & Wife” and “Kate & Allie.” Her family, led by her husband, veteran television executive Dick Ebersol, released a tribute characterizing her as a woman who remained “generous with her time and energy” throughout her life. The statement noted that she taught her children to “pause, be kind and look out for other people.”
A Legacy of Resilience
Beyond her professional achievements, Saint James was often recognized for her personal strength and resilience. This was most visible following the tragic plane crash on November 28, 2004, which claimed the life of her youngest son, Teddy. Her family noted that her ability to navigate that loss with grace became a defining aspect of her character, informing her later years.
Despite her health challenges, she remained connected to her television roots, making a high-profile public appearance at the SNL 50th Anniversary Special in New York on February 16, 2025.
A Career Defined by Television Classics
Saint James rose to prominence in the late 1960s, earning an Emmy Award in 1969 for her role as Peggy Maxwell in “The Name of the Game.” This early success led to her iconic pairing with Rock Hudson in the mystery series “McMillan & Wife,” which aired from 1971 to 1976. According to reporting from the Los Angeles Times, her portrayal of Sally McMillan was celebrated for its charm and intelligence, helping the show become a cornerstone of the NBC Mystery Movie wheel.
In the 1980s, she found renewed success starring in “Kate & Allie,” a sitcom focused on two divorced mothers raising their families together. The role earned her multiple Emmy nominations and solidified her status as a pioneer for women on television.
Saint James is survived by her husband, Dick Ebersol, and their four children. Her family has requested privacy as they mourn the loss of a woman they described as a pillar of kindness and strength.
