Actress Susan Saint James dies at 80

American television actress Susan Saint James has died at the age of 80 following a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Her death was confirmed by a representative to PEOPLE.

Saint James was a prominent figure in US television throughout the 1970s and 1980s. She gained international fame for her role as Sally McMillan in the police drama McMillan & Wife, starring alongside Rock Hudson. She later starred in the sitcom Kate & Allie alongside Jane Curtin, portraying one of two divorced single mothers.

Born Susan Jane Miller in Los Angeles, she initially pursued modeling in Paris before transitioning to acting. Her early career achievements included winning a Primetime Emmy Award in 1969 for The Name of the Game. Beyond her acting career, she was recognized for her charitable involvement with the Special Olympics.