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

Variety · 2026-10-27
Susan Saint James, Emmy-Winning Star of ‘McMillan & Wife’ and ‘Kate & Allie,’ Dies at 80

Susan Saint James, the beloved Emmy-winning actress known for her roles in the classic TV series “McMillan & Wife” and “Kate & Allie,” has died at age 80. Her family confirmed to People that she passed away on Monday after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Saint James first rose to fame alongside Rock Hudson in the 1970s crime drama “McMillan & Wife,” earning four Emmy nominations for her portrayal of Sally McMillan. She later became a household name starring opposite Jane Curtin in the hit CBS sitcom “Kate & Allie,” which ran from 1984 to 1989 and earned her a second Emmy win. Her warm, comedic timing and relatable on-screen presence made her a favorite among television audiences for decades. Saint James’s passing marks the end of an era for fans of classic TV, but her work continues to resonate through reruns and streaming platforms. Her legacy as a trailblazing actress in both drama and comedy will be remembered by generations of viewers.