From a young age, Bonnie Bartlett Daniels had dreams that sparkled as brightly as the stars she admired. "My brother and I would go to the movies on weekends, sometimes watching four films in a single day," she shares with Closer. "When I got home, I’d pretend to be iconic actresses like Mae West or Jean Harlow. It was my way of living out my dreams, even as a child." While Bonnie didn’t follow the path of blond bombshells, she carved her own remarkable journey in the entertainment industry. Her career highlights include prominent roles in the daytime drama Love of Life, Little House on the Prairie, and earning two Emmy Awards for her performance in the 1980s medical drama St. Elsewhere.
Of course, her journey wasn’t all glitz and glamour. Along the way, Bonnie faced personal and professional challenges that shaped her life profoundly. In her new memoir, Middle of the Rainbow, she opens up about her long marriage to actor William Daniels, the heartbreak of losing their first child during childbirth, and a harrowing sexual assault by a soap opera co-star. "I felt this was the right time to write this book," Bonnie explains. "Considering how far women have come, and how much further we need to go, I wanted to share my story. I’m not an activist, but I’ve experienced a lot in my 93 years, and I hope my story resonates with others."
From Childhood Dreams to Stage Aspirations
So, acting was always your dream, right?
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"Absolutely, but I never imagined being a movie star. My heart was set on becoming a stage actress. I admired Helen Hayes and dreamed of performing serious theater. That’s where I felt I belonged," Bonnie recalls with a warm smile.
You studied acting in New York with Lee Strasberg alongside Marilyn Monroe. What was she like?
"Marilyn was already a major star, but she was also a brilliant comedian. She came to Lee Strasberg because she wanted to be taken seriously as an actress. She was an incredible student, very focused and attentive. Despite her fame, she knew she had a sharp mind but lacked formal education. She surrounded herself with brilliant people, and I admired her deeply," Bonnie fondly remembers.
Did your father, who was also an actor, influence your decision to pursue acting?
"My father was definitely a big part of my life. He was a wonderful actor and a loving father, but he also had a darker side and became quite abusive later on. Acting became my escape. When you’re playing someone else, you’re temporarily free from your own struggles. It was my sanctuary," Bonnie reflects with a mixture of nostalgia and bittersweet emotion.
A Journey Through Life's Ups and Downs
Years later, you faced another difficult experience with a co-star on 'Love of Life.'
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"That was one of the hardest moments of my life. Both incidents left deep scars, but they were also defining moments. Writing about them in my book was a way to show that you can overcome such challenges and emerge stronger," Bonnie says with resilience.
A Marriage Built on Love and Growth
You also write extensively about your long marriage to William Daniels. Was it always smooth sailing?
"When I met Bill, I felt like we were soulmates. No matter the difficulties, we’ve always been close. But Bill had his struggles too. He was a star at Northwestern University, but when we moved to New York, he couldn’t find work while I landed a big role on Love of Life. That created tension, and he could be verbally abusive. It wasn’t easy, but we worked through it," Bonnie reveals.
Did you ever consider leaving him?
"There was a time when I thought maybe I should be with someone else. But Bill changed, and his anger no longer consumed our relationship. We grew together, and that’s what kept us going," she explains with a sense of relief and gratitude.
Was there ever a phase where your marriage felt more open?
"We never labeled it as an open marriage, but there was a period in New York when societal norms were looser. People were more free-spirited, and relationships were less judgmental. Moving to Hollywood and starting a family was the turning point for us. It brought us closer and gave us a new sense of purpose," Bonnie reflects.
The Secret to a 72-Year Marriage
In June, you’ll celebrate 72 years of marriage. What’s the secret to such a long-lasting union?
"First and foremost, you have to genuinely like each other. If you’re happier when you’re apart, then it’s time to rethink the relationship. I believe in commitment, and Bill and I were fortunate to grow and change together. We’ve faced challenges, but we’ve always found a way to support each other," Bonnie emphasizes.
A Career Filled with Memorable Roles
What are some of your favorite acting roles?
"I loved my time on St. Elsewhere. It was a dream role. I also cherished my experience on Little House on the Prairie. Working with Victor French was pure joy. We called it a western fairy tale because, although it wasn’t entirely realistic, it touched people’s hearts. I’m also proud of my small but meaningful role on Better Call Saul," Bonnie shares with a proud smile.
What was it like being on 'The Golden Girls'?
"Oh, that was such a fun experience. I knew Bea Arthur from New York. She had adopted two boys, just like we did. Our husbands were great friends, and she guided me around the set. I was also close with Rue McClanahan and had worked with Betty White on St. Elsewhere. Estelle Getty was the only one I hadn’t met, but she was delightful and a true talent," Bonnie reminisces.
Working Together, Laughing Together
You’ve worked with your husband a lot. What’s that like?
"It’s wonderful. We have such a deep understanding of each other that the chemistry flows naturally. Bill loves critiquing my work, and I take it all in stride. We joke about it, and it keeps things light and fun," Bonnie says with a laugh.
What advice would you give your younger self?
"Seize every opportunity to learn and grow as an actor. Explore life—travel, experience nature, engage with the world. Acting is just one part of who you are. Be politically aware and active. Life is a journey of participation, and it’s important to stay engaged
