It was a magical reunion this summer when the original Broadway cast of Grease gathered in New York to celebrate the show’s 50th anniversary. For those who were lucky enough to be part of it, the memories are still as fresh as ever. “The original Greasers are a family,” says Ilene Graff, the actress who played Sandy for two and a half years. “Back in those days, we were all young performers playing high school kids. For many of us, the bonds we formed on stage replaced the ones we had with our real high school and college friends. We were like a tight-knit group, and that connection has lasted through the decades.”
A Journey from Broadway to Television
While theater fans may know Ilene Graff from her iconic role as Sandy, television audiences likely recognize her as Marsha, the lawyer wife of George on the beloved sitcom Mr. Belvedere. The show aired from 1985 to 1990, and Ilene says the role was a perfect fit for her personality. “Marsha was a smart, confident woman, and I felt like I brought that same energy to the role,” she shares. “Playing a mom on TV also helped me navigate my own family life. I learned so much from my TV kids that I later applied to raising my own daughter.”
Ilene’s Early Days in Entertainment
Did you always know you wanted to be in entertainment?
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Ilene’s love for the arts runs deep in her family. “I grew up in a musical household,” she recalls. “My dad was a singer and performed with a group. He did tons of jingles and backup singing on records. I started singing professionally with him when I was just 12 years old. The only difference between me and my dad was that I wanted to act and perform in theater. I was determined to do musicals.”
How did your family react to your career choice?
“They were incredibly supportive,” Ilene says. “For them, it was like me joining the family business. Though I was a bit of a rebel because I wanted to talk and not just sing. But my parents were theater enthusiasts, so they understood and encouraged me every step of the way.”
A Breakthrough Role on Broadway
What was your first big break?
Ilene’s journey to Broadway began right after college. “I landed my first Broadway show, Promises, Promises, thanks to an audition my dad helped me secure. He was friends with the music director, which opened the door for me. That show, along with the national tour, gave me the credibility I needed to establish myself in the industry.”
A Steady Career in Television
You’ve had a steady career in television since the 1970s. How did you manage that?
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Ilene attributes her success to good timing and a bit of luck. “When I moved from New York to Los Angeles in the late 1970s, I fit the mold of what casting directors were looking for. I was cute and funny, and then as I aged, I became the perfect choice for playing young moms. It wasn’t just talent; it was also about being in the right place at the right time. I have talented friends who never got the same opportunities because their timing wasn’t right.”
Memorable Moments on Set
What are your favorite memories from filming Mr. Belvedere?
Ilene laughs as she recalls some of the funniest episodes. “We had so many scenes where the writers would put us in ridiculous costumes. One time, I had to dress up as a mushroom! Those were the moments when everyone got into the spirit, and the set was filled with laughter. It was pure joy.”
You also worked with Robin Williams on Mork & Mindy. What was that experience like?
“Working with Robin was surreal,” Ilene says. “The table reads felt like being in a comedy club. He and Jonathan Winters were constantly improvising, and each line was funnier than the last. Robin was not only hilarious but also an incredible acting partner. He was trained at Juilliard, so when it came to serious scenes, he was fully present and professional. His creativity knew no bounds.”
Another legend you worked with was Rodney Dangerfield on Ladybugs. What was he like?
“Rodney was one of a kind,” Ilene remembers fondly. “At heart, he was a writer. During filming, if a joke didn’t land, they’d turn to Rodney and say, ‘We need a better punchline.’ Within seconds, he’d come up with 10 or 15 new jokes. I was in awe of his talent and quick thinking.”
A Legacy Passed Down
Your daughter, Nikka Graff Lanzarone, followed in your footsteps to Broadway. How does that make you feel?
“It’s bittersweet,” Ilene admits. “As much as I whispered ‘be a doctor’ into her ear when she was little, she was born to dance. It’s in her blood. Performing has always been her happy place, and I couldn’t be prouder of her for finding her passion.”
A Life Built on Love and Philanthropy
You’ve been married for over 40 years. What’s your secret to a long-lasting relationship?
“It all starts with friendship,” Ilene says. “My husband and I share a deep respect and admiration for each other’s talents. Music has always been a big part of our relationship, and we simply enjoy being together. This August, we’ll celebrate 45 years of love and partnership.”
You’re also deeply involved in charity work. Tell us about that.
“Philanthropy has always been important to me,” Ilene explains. “My mom was an activist, and she instilled in me the importance of giving back. I recently became involved with Doors for Change, an organization based in San Diego that supports homeless youth, many of whom are part of the LGBTQ+ community. These kids often face rejection from their families, and Doors for Change provides them with a safe place to go. They’re doing incredible work, not just in San Diego but across the country.”
And you also work with the Entertainment Community Fund?
“Yes, we recently rebranded from the Actors Fund to the Entertainment Community Fund to better reflect the diverse group of people we serve,” Ilene says. “During the pandemic, we provided over $26 million in direct financial aid to those in the arts and entertainment industry who lost health insurance. Now, we’re expanding our reach to help even more people. It’s an honor to serve as an officer of the Western Council and be part of such a vital organization.”
Embracing Life at Every Stage
What do you enjoy most about being the age you are now?
“I’ve learned to let go of the pressure to be perfect,” Ilene reflects. “At this stage in life, I feel more comfortable in my own skin. I’ve gained a lot of experience and knowledge, and I love being able to share that with others. Whether it’s mentoring young actors or supporting charitable causes, I feel like I can make a difference.”
