As a young girl, Linda Gray would sit outside the gates of MGM Studios, mesmerized by the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s elite. “I remember Carmen Miranda and Van Johnson cruising into the studio lot in their shiny convertibles,” Linda shares with Closer. “They were icons of style and elegance. We’d eagerly wait for them, asking for autographs with wide-eyed excitement. Some stars were incredibly kind, stopping to sign our little books, creating memories that stayed with me forever.”
Fast forward several decades, and Linda Gray, now 83, became a household name herself as Sue Ellen Ewing on the iconic TV series Dallas. The show ran for 14 seasons in its original run, and Linda’s portrayal of Sue Ellen became one of her most cherished roles. Though she’s also graced screens in various films and theaters, Sue Ellen remains the character closest to her heart, even reuniting with the role in multiple reunions and a 2012 revival series.
Growing Up and Finding Inspiration
What was your childhood like?
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“I had the most incredible upbringing. My family was filled with love, and life was simpler back then. We drank from the garden hose, played outside all day, and felt free in ways kids today might not experience. My grandma played a pivotal role in shaping who I am. She taught me the importance of following my heart, trusting my instincts, and not letting others dictate my path. Even though she’s been gone for many years, her wisdom continues to guide me daily.”
Who inspired you to pursue acting?
“Two incredible women: Bette Davis and Katharine Hepburn. They embodied intelligence, strength, and versatility. Whether it was comedy or drama, they owned every role. Watching them perform made me realize the power of storytelling through acting. I wanted to emulate their brilliance and bring that same depth to my performances.”
Meeting Childhood Idols on 'Dallas'
Did you ever meet any of your childhood heroes after becoming famous?
“Absolutely. One of the highlights of my career was working with Howard Keel on Dallas. As a teenager, I was captivated by his musicals—he was the epitome of charm and talent. Imagine my surprise when he revealed that the very stage we were filming on was where he launched his Hollywood career. Standing there with him felt surreal, like a dream come true. He was such a warm and gracious person, and those moments remain etched in my memory.”
The Dallas Family Reunion
How does it feel to reunite with the Dallas cast after all these years?
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“Reuniting with everyone is pure joy. We’ve been through so much together—celebrating milestones, supporting each other during tough times, and sharing countless laughs. It’s more than just a professional bond; it’s a family. For instance, I met Charlene Tilton when she was just 17, and now she’s a proud grandmother. Seeing how our lives have intertwined over the years is truly remarkable.”
Can you share a favorite memory from the early days of the show?
“Oh, there are so many! But one stands out: Larry Hagman and Patrick Duffy were absolute troublemakers. During one dinner scene, Larry would launch dinner rolls across the table using his fork, and Patrick would send them flying right back. Barbara Bel Geddes, playing Miss Ellie, would sit there in her elegant attire, exasperatedly saying, ‘Stop it, stop it!’ It was like watching a playful family dynamic unfold. Those moments brought laughter and camaraderie to the set.”
It sounds like you all had a blast together.
“Absolutely! The magic happened once the cameras rolled, but behind the scenes, we were just a group of friends having fun. That connection has endured long after the show ended, which is rare in this industry. We genuinely care about each other, and that friendship is something I treasure deeply.”
Life Today and Lessons Learned
What’s life like for you now?
“Life has taken unexpected turns. After 50 years, I decided to sell my home in Los Angeles, partly due to the profound loss of my son to leukemia in 2020. That experience reshaped my perspective. To heal and reflect, I embarked on a pilgrimage to Spain, walking the Camino de Santiago. It was challenging but also incredibly fulfilling. Pushing myself physically and mentally reminded me of the resilience we all possess.”
Can you offer advice for others navigating grief?
“Grief is deeply personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Our society often struggles to support those in mourning. For me, the key was accepting that the pain wouldn’t disappear but learning to live alongside it. I focus on gratitude for the time I had with loved ones and try to honor their memory positively. However, everyone’s journey is unique, and it’s important to find what works best for you.”
How did you celebrate turning 83?
“It’s become a tradition—my grandson Ryder, who shares my birthday, and I always celebrate together. We enjoy a special lunch just the two of us before inviting the rest of the family for dinner. These moments remind me of the importance of connection and creating lasting memories.”
The Greatest Truth
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in life?
“It comes down to following your heart. Whether it’s pursuing a dream or navigating life’s challenges, trust your instincts. Women, especially, need to embrace their intuition and not let societal expectations dictate their choices. Life moves quickly, so make the most of every opportunity. As I’ve aged, I’ve realized how precious time is and how vital it is to live authentically.”
