Back in the 1970s, Michael Learned became a household name as the beloved Olivia Walton on The Waltons. Here's the thing: she was only 32 years old when she was cast, but they were looking for someone in their 40s with long red hair. Michael, now 83, told Closer, “I had short blond hair. Who knows why they picked me? I must’ve had someone in my corner.” For seven seasons, she played the warm and hardworking mom of eight, earning six Emmy nominations for Lead Actress and taking home the trophy three times. That’s a pretty impressive streak, if you ask me.
After The Waltons, Michael’s career didn’t slow down one bit. Her role in the hospital drama Nurse earned her a fourth Emmy in 1982. And let’s not forget her theatrical roots—she’s never strayed too far from the stage. Earlier this year, she shone in a Canadian production of On Golden Pond. Recently, she’s even found her way back to TV in a juicy role as the grandmother of a serial killer on Netflix’s Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story. “At first, I thought it was just a character role,” Michael says with a laugh. “Then I realized, no, it’s not. I am that old! They did give me a white wig, but hey, who cares? I love working!”
How It All Began: Discovering the Love of Acting
Let’s rewind to the start. When did Michael realize she had a passion for acting? “I was in boarding school in England,” she recalls. “I wanted to be a prima ballerina, but I wasn’t cut out for it. I was too tall, and my feet weren’t exactly graceful. Luckily, I won the drama cup at a school competition, and my teacher encouraged me to pursue acting instead. That was the moment I knew I was destined for the stage.”
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Family Support: The Backbone of Success
Did her family support her dreams? Absolutely. “My mom was always there for me,” Michael says warmly. “She encouraged all of us to explore the arts, and I’m so grateful for that.”
The Big Break: A Star Is Born
Michael’s first professional gig was an off-Broadway show. At the time, she was a young mom with a 2-year-old and another baby on the way. “I got this review that said, ‘Miss Learned is the most outrageously voluptuous young lady ever to grace a downtown stage,’” she laughs. “I was pregnant, so everything was round and Rubenesque. It was fun, and it helped put me on the map.”
Memories of The Waltons: A Warm and Special Time
It’s hard to believe it’s been 50 years since The Waltons first aired. What stands out most from those days? “The makeup room,” Michael says fondly. “We’d gather there early in the morning when it was still dark outside. It was cozy and comforting, a place where everyone was vulnerable and silly. That’s where some of my best memories were made.”
Ralph Waite: A Special Bond
Michael had a unique connection with Ralph Waite, who played her husband on the show. “We had great chemistry,” she explains. “Our scenes together were always enjoyable. The only ones I dreaded? The eating scenes. Those went on forever, and I’d just push the food around my plate. Same mashed potatoes from morning until afternoon!”
Winning an Emmy: A Life-Changing Moment?
Did her first Emmy win change her? Not really, she says. “It was thrilling, though. I went with my son Chris as my date, and it was all so exciting. Suddenly, you’re in a limo, wearing a designer dress, and having your hair done. I didn’t expect to win, but it was a real thrill.”
Working with Legends: Michael’s Favorite Costars
Over the years, Michael has worked with some incredible people. “Richard Chamberlain is such a sweetheart,” she says. “And Paul Sorvino—we did a comedy together, and it was fantastic. Oh, and Richard Gere? I fell madly in love with him. Who doesn’t, right?”
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Life Outside the Spotlight: Keeping It Real
What does Michael do when she’s not working? “I’m pretty normal,” she admits. “I walk the dog, cook, grocery shop, and schlep around. I’m not thrilled about being a housewife, but I do have a wonderful husband, so I’m lucky there.”
The Secret to a Long Marriage
Michael and her husband John have been together for 34 years. What’s their secret? “We bicker all the time!” she laughs. “We’re both Aries, so we’re strong-willed. But we listen to each other, and if we’ve had a disagreement, John always comes in and hashes it out. Our marriage isn’t perfect, but it’s full of laughter and love.”
Family First: The Joys of Grandmotherhood
Michael has three sons and five grandchildren. What’s the best part of being a grandma? “Everything,” she says simply. “Hearing the kids laugh and play outside brings me so much joy. My kids were—and still are—the highlight of my life.”
Following in Mom’s Footsteps?
Did any of her sons pursue acting? “My youngest wanted to, but after doing a movie, he decided against it. Now he’s a producer. My older sons are talented too, but they chose different paths. One’s a musician, and the other’s an artist and designer.”
The Best Part of Aging Gracefully
What’s the best
