Susan Saint James 80-year-old battle with pancreatic cancer shocks fans

# Susan Saint James, 80, Dies After Cancer, Tribute Highlights Laughter The television world lost a beloved icon on Tuesday when Susan Saint James, 80, succumbed to pancreatic cancer.

Her passing marks the end of a career that spanned stage, screen, and philanthropy, and it has left a palpable void for fans and colleagues alike.

The most intimate tribute came from former “Kate & Allie” co‑star Jane Curtin, who described the late actress as “a decent person” and recalled their shared moments on the Ed Sullivan Theater stage as “laughter, community and family.” As the industry reflects on James’s legacy, her family, friends, and fellow performers mourn a talent whose presence was felt both on and off the spotlight. ## Background & Context Susan Saint James was best known for her portrayal of Kate McArdle on the family‑driven comedy “Kate & Allie,” which ended in 1989.

The show centered on two divorced mothers—Kate, played by James, and Allie, portrayed by Jane Curtin—who, together with their children, moved in under one roof to share the challenges and joys of single parenthood.

The chemistry between the two actresses, both on‑screen and off, was palpable; their friendship endured long after the show’s conclusion. Beyond sitcom fame, James’s stage career was equally impressive.

She graced the Broadway stage, most notably in the musical “Love at First Bite,” and later returned to the Ed Sullivan Theater for “Kate & Allie.” Her commitment to theater extended beyond performance.

James was an avid supporter of the Special Olympics, dedicating countless hours to the organization and advocating for athletes with intellectual disabilities. Her humanitarian work, coupled with her sharp comedic timing, made her a respected figure in entertainment circles.

In her personal life, James married media executive Dick Ebersol in 1981, with whom she shared a lifelong partnership. Together they raised three children: Charlie Ebersol, Willie Ebersol, and their youngest son, Teddy.

Tragically, Teddy lost his life in a private‑jet crash at the age of 14 in 2004—a loss that left an indelible mark on the family. James also has two children, Sunshine and Harmony, from a previous marriage to Tom Lucas.

Her motherly instinct translated into a public persona that valued kindness, patience, and community. ## What People Are Saying In the immediate aftermath of her death, a wave of condolences flooded the social media feeds of fans and industry peers. Jane Curtin’s heartfelt statement became the most resonant voice.

She described James as “a decent person who made ‘Kate and Allie’ a joy,” emphasizing how James balanced a “really full life” between the Ed Sullivan Theater and her family responsibilities.

Curtin’s words also highlighted James’s relentless dedication to causes she believed in, notably the Special Olympics, painting a picture of an actress who used her platform for altruistic endeavors.

The tribute further delved into the personal tragedies James faced, mentioning the loss of her son Teddy in a private‑jet crash. Curtin’s recollection of James’s resilience in the face of such profound sorrow revealed a depth of friendship that went beyond the sitcom set.

The former co‑stars shared a bond rooted in mutual respect and the shared joy of creating a show that resonated with viewers nationwide. James’s representatives also issued a statement, noting her generosity and the manner in which she approached every interaction with a sense of genuine care.

They described her as someone who “never met a stranger” and who treated everyone—whether a board member or a clerk at a shoe store—as if they were the most important person in the room.

The statement emphasized her role as a mother who taught her children to pause, be kind, and look out for others, traits that mirrored her on‑stage persona. The broader entertainment community echoed similar sentiments.

Former colleagues remembered her warm presence in rehearsals, her infectious laugh, and her unwavering professionalism.

Fans who grew up watching “Kate & Allie” recalled the show’s legacy as a representation of modern family dynamics, and many expressed how James’s portrayal of a single mother navigating the complexities of life still felt relevant today. ## What Happens Next With her passing, the focus shifts to honoring Susan Saint James’s memory.

Fans and colleagues may gather to celebrate her life and work, recalling the laughter, kindness, and dedication that defined her career.

Her legacy will continue to inspire those who admired her performances and her commitment to causes she championed. ## Closing Susan Saint James’s death leaves a void that will be felt across theater, television, and philanthropy.

Her laughter, her kindness, and her unwavering commitment to family and community resonate long after the final curtain falls. In a world that often celebrates the fleeting, her legacy reminds us that true influence endures, not just in the roles we play, but in the lives we touch.