Let’s take a trip down memory lane. Can you believe Cheryl Ladd once hesitated to join the cast of Charlie’s Angels in 1977? “I was replacing Farrah Fawcett, who was the biggest star on the planet,” Cheryl exclusively shares with Closer. “I thought, ‘How can anyone do that?’” But fate had other plans. Thanks to the persistence of producer Aaron Spelling, Cheryl eventually said yes. She stepped into the role of Kris Munroe in the second season, and the rest, as they say, is history. “The most rewarding thing was that it was a big success,” Cheryl, now 70, reflects. “The second season of the show actually had higher ratings than the first. I was so relieved!”
After her unforgettable run on Charlie’s Angels, Cheryl — who initially moved to California from South Dakota to pursue a singing career — became a household name in both television and film. Her most recent project is A Cowgirl’s Song. “I play a country and western singer who’s sort of retired since she lost her husband,” Cheryl explains. “She faces some challenges, and then she has to get back up on the horse and do a concert. Filming it was a joyful experience all the way around.” This movie is more than just entertainment; it’s a celebration of resilience and the power of family.
Cheryl Ladd’s Exclusive Q&A
Many actresses say they have trouble finding roles after age 30, but you’re still going strong. What’s your secret?
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“I’m one of those lucky ones who still have a name thanks to Charlie’s Angels — the show is always airing somewhere on the planet!” Cheryl says with a laugh. “So, I get some nice opportunities, although I’m definitely picky. Every now and then, I find something I really love, like A Cowgirl’s Song. It’s all about choosing projects that resonate with me personally.”
What Makes A Cowgirl’s Song So Special?
“It’s a family movie filled with music and heartwarming moments,” Cheryl explains. “We’ve all been through so much with the pandemic, and I think people are craving stories that remind us of the importance of family. This movie does exactly that. It’s a feel-good experience that everyone can enjoy.”
Growing Up: Cheryl’s Inspirations
As a little girl, did you have any idols growing up?
“Oh, absolutely!” Cheryl reminisces. “When I was young, Hayley Mills was my hero. I even had an English accent one entire summer because I loved her so much! As I grew older, Katharine Hepburn became one of my favorite actresses. And Susan Hayward — she always had an edge that I admired. Of course, I also got the chance to play Grace Kelly in The Grace Kelly Story, which was produced by my husband. It was a dream come true.”
Staying Connected: Cheryl’s Relationship with Her Charlie’s Angels Castmates
Do you stay in touch with your Charlie’s Angels costars?
“Oh, absolutely! Jaclyn Smith and I talk all the time,” Cheryl says with a smile. “She’s just the sweetest person — so elegant, yet so much fun. We’d love to find the right project to work together on. Imagine a movie about two old friends navigating life’s ups and downs. That would be such a joy.”
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Remembering Tanya Roberts
We were all heartbroken by the passing of Charlie’s Angels’ Tanya Roberts last year. What was she like?
“Tanya was one of a kind,” Cheryl remembers fondly. “She spoke like a truck driver and made Jaclyn and me laugh so hard. She was outrageous, but in the best possible way. She’ll always have a special place in my heart.”
Favorite Costars Over the Years
Who have been some of your all-time favorite costars?
“That’s a tough one,” Cheryl admits. “But one of my absolute favorites has to be Michael Caine. He’s one of the funniest people I’ve ever met. We were filming Jekyll & Hyde, and I was in this big bustle dress. He kept telling jokes, and I couldn’t stop laughing. I’d say, ‘Michael, please stop! I can’t handle it!’ He was absolutely delightful and hilarious.”
Challenges Along the Way
What have been some of the biggest challenges in your career?
“Doing four years of Charlie’s Angels with 28 episodes per season was definitely a grind,” Cheryl recalls. “Even during my supposed hiatus, I was busy with movies of the week and variety shows. I had a 2-year-old daughter at the time, and I missed so many precious moments with her. That’s why I didn’t do another series for a long time after Charlie’s Angels. I wanted to be there for my daughter, Jordan.”
Cheryl and Jordan: A Bond Like No Other
Are you and Jordan still close?
“We’re absolutely inseparable!” Cheryl beams. “It’s such a blessing to be this age and have an adult daughter who’s also one of my best friends. She’ll always be my baby, but I’m so proud of the woman she’s become. My other daughter, Lindsay, calls me her ‘bonus mom,’ and she’s been part of my life since she was 4. Family is everything to me.”
Supporting Jordan’s Acting Career
Did you worry when Jordan decided to follow in your acting footsteps?
“Not at all,” Cheryl says confidently. “Jordan had a better understanding of the business than I did when I first started. She’s incredibly talented, and it’s like acting is in her DNA. I couldn’t be prouder of her.”
The Secret to a Happy Marriage
You’ve been married to Brian Russell since 1981. What’s the secret to your lasting relationship?
“Brian and I both have creative souls,” Cheryl shares. “We started out as friends, and that foundation has kept us together through thick and thin. We admire each other’s work — I think he’s incredibly talented, and his books are fantastic. He’s got a new one out called The Marble Sea, and it’s getting rave reviews. We understand each other’s need for space and time, and that’s key to any successful marriage.”
Future Projects and Reflections
Are you planning on writing another book?
“I’m thinking about writing an autobiography that focuses on the big turning points in my life and what I’ve learned,” Cheryl reveals. “Life is full of ups and downs, and I believe sharing those experiences can help others. We should be open about our heartbreaks and growing pains. That’s how we grow.”
Finding Strength in Faith
Who do you turn to for support when you need it?
“I’m a Christian, and prayer is my lifeline,” Cheryl says sincerely. “I trust in the Lord’s plan for me, whether I’m going through tough times or celebrating the good ones. He’s always been my rock, and I’ve never
