Linda Gray, a name synonymous with elegance, talent, and an unrelenting zest for life, has been captivating audiences worldwide for over four decades. The actress, best known for her role as Sue Ellen Ewing in the hit television series “Dallas,” has left a lasting impression on the entertainment industry. But her journey is not solely defined by her on-screen performances. Gray has also dabbled in directing, modeling, and philanthropy, all while maintaining her evergreen charm.
Net Worth: $12 Million
Salary: –
Date of Birth: Sep 12, 1940
Place of Birth: Santa Monica, California
Gender: Female
Profession: Actor, Model
Linda Gray Early Life
Linda Ann Gray was born on September 12, 1940, in Santa Monica, California. Raised in a humble household, she is the daughter of Leslie Gray, a watchmaker, and Marjorie Gray, a stenographer. Linda’s childhood was marked by a love for the performing arts, and she often participated in school plays.
However, it was not until later in life that Gray would officially pursue an acting career. After graduating from Notre Dame Academy, a Catholic high school in Los Angeles, she married Ed Thrasher, an art director for Capitol Records, in 1962. The couple had two children, Jeff Thrasher and Kehly Sloane.
In the late 1960s, Gray began her foray into the world of entertainment by working as a model. Her tall and slender frame, coupled with her striking features, made her a perfect fit for the industry. Gray even made history as the iconic “Legs of the Great American Legs” poster for the 1967 film “The Graduate.”
Linda Gray’s big break came in 1978 when she landed the role of Sue Ellen Ewing in “Dallas,” a soap opera that would become one of the most successful television dramas in history. Gray’s portrayal of Sue Ellen, a complex and emotionally charged character, cemented her status as a household name. For her outstanding performance, she earned an Emmy nomination for “Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series” in 1981 and two Golden Globe nominations in 1980 and 1981.
Throughout her career, Gray has appeared in numerous TV shows, movies, and stage productions, including “Models Inc.,” “Melrose Place,” “The Bold and the Beautiful,” “Hollyoaks,” and the West End production of “The Graduate.” In addition to her acting, she also directed episodes of “Dallas,” showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry.
Linda Gray Personal Life
Linda Gray has always been open about her personal life, which has undoubtedly contributed to her relatability and down-to-earth persona. In 1983, after 21 years of marriage, she and Ed Thrasher decided to part ways amicably. Despite the divorce, the two maintained a strong friendship until Thrasher’s passing in 2006. Gray has mentioned in interviews that her two children, Jeff and Kehly, have been a constant source of support and inspiration in her life.
Gray’s personal experiences have led her to become an advocate for mental health awareness. In her 2015 memoir, “The Road to Happiness is Always Under Construction,” she openly discussed her battles with depression and alcoholism. This candidness has helped break down stigmas surrounding mental health and encouraged others to seek help when needed.
Linda Gray Career
As mentioned earlier, Linda Gray’s career took off with her iconic role as Sue Ellen Ewing in “Dallas.” The show’s immense success made her a household name, and Gray used this newfound fame to explore a variety of roles in film, television, and theater.
In the 1990s, Gray starred in “Models Inc.,” a spin-off of the popular TV show “Melrose Place.” She portrayed Hillary Michaels, the owner of a modeling agency, and showcased her ability to play strong, independent women. Gray also appeared in other TV series, such as “The Bold and the Beautiful” and the British soap opera “Hollyoaks,” further solidifying her status as a versatile actress.
On the big screen, Gray acted in movies like “Oscar” (1991), “Moment of Truth: Why My Daughter?” (1993), and “Hidden Moon” (2012), which allowed her to explore different characters and genres. In 2001, she made her West End debut as Mrs. Robinson in the stage adaptation of “The Graduate,” a role that was met with critical acclaim.
Linda Gray’s directing career began on the set of “Dallas” when she directed several episodes of the hit show. This experience ignited her passion for directing, and she went on to direct episodes of other TV series, such as “Beverly Hills, 90210” and “Melrose Place.”
Throughout her career, Gray has received numerous accolades for her performances. In addition to her Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, she was honored with the Nosotros Golden Eagle Award in 1993 for her contributions to the entertainment industry. In 2016, Gray received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Dallas International Film Festival, a testament to her enduring impact on the world of television and film.
Linda Gray Net Worth
Linda Gray’s illustrious career in the entertainment industry has certainly paid off. As of 2023, her estimated net worth is $12 million. Gray’s wealth has been accumulated through her acting roles, directing endeavors, and various endorsement deals. The success of “Dallas” played a significant role in contributing to her net worth, as the show aired for 14 seasons and maintained an impressive viewership throughout its run.
Despite her immense success, Gray remains grounded and uses her influence to give back to society. She is a dedicated philanthropist and has been involved in numerous charitable organizations over the years. Some of her notable involvements include serving as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations, advocating for the rights of women, and working to end world hunger.
Gray has also been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and environmental causes, proving that her impact extends far beyond the realm of entertainment. Her continued efforts in philanthropy have earned her various awards and recognitions, such as the Woman of the Year Award from the Women’s Guild of Cedars-Sinai Hospital and the Humanitarian Award from the Washington, D.C. chapter of the Human Rights Campaign.
Today, Linda Gray continues to work in the entertainment industry, taking on new projects and exploring different avenues of creativity. Her dedication, resilience, and passion for the arts serve as an inspiration for both aspiring and established actors. With a career spanning over four decades, Linda Gray’s undeniable talent, charisma, and generosity continue to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of her fans and the entertainment world.
