Actress Susan Saint James Dies at Age 80

The veteran television star was best known for her roles in McMillan & Wife and Kate & Allie.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Cancer

Bold flat-color editorial illustration showing a monumental theater stage curtain, evoking the legacy of a veteran television actress.
Acclaimed television actress Susan Saint James, best known for her iconic roles in McMillan & Wife and Kate & Allie, has died at 80. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Acclaimed actress Susan Saint James passed away on October 26, 2026, at the age of 80. Her death was attributed to pancreatic cancer.

Why it matters

Saint James was a fixture of American television for decades, earning critical acclaim and a lasting legacy through her iconic comedy and drama roles.

Susan Saint James's professional achievements included winning a Primetime Emmy for Best Supporting Actress in 1969. She is survived by her husband, Dick Ebersol, four children, and seven grandchildren.

The players

Susan Saint James

She was a prominent American actress known for her work in television comedies and dramas.

Dick Ebersol

He is the husband of the late Susan Saint James.

The details

Throughout her career, Saint James starred in popular television series including The Name of the Game, McMillan & Wife, and Kate & Allie. She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2008 for her contributions to the entertainment industry.

Timeline

  1. 1969: Won Primetime Emmy for Best Supporting Actress.

  2. 1989: Retired from show business after the conclusion of Kate & Allie.

  3. 2008: Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

  4. October 26, 2026: Susan Saint James died of pancreatic cancer.

Health Landscape

The death of a public figure often highlights the prevalence of pancreatic cancer, a disease that continues to be a major focus of medical research and patient advocacy. Her passing follows a career recognized by the 2008 Hollywood Walk of Fame induction.

Pancreatic cancer remains a serious health challenge that impacts thousands of families annually. Understanding individual risk factors and symptoms is essential for those seeking proactive healthcare management.

The takeaway

Susan Saint James leaves behind a significant body of work that shaped television history for multiple generations. Her family has requested privacy as they mourn the loss of their wife, mother, and grandmother.

Further reading

Read more about ongoing Cancer research and awareness efforts in the United States.