Suzanne Pleshette was an American actress and voice actress who appeared in television, movies, and on Broadway. She is best known for her role as Emily Hartley on The Bob Newhart Show in the 1970s. Let’s take a closer look at Suzanne Pleshette’s life and career.
Early Life and Career
Suzanne Pleshette was born on January 31, 1937 in New York City. From a young age, she was interested in performing and took ballet and acting lessons. She began her career as a stage actress, appearing in Broadway productions in the late 1950s and early 1960s such as The Miracle Worker, The Cold Wind and the Warm, and A Shot in the Dark.
Her breakthrough role came when she was cast as the female lead in the 1962 film The Geisha Boy opposite Jerry Lewis. This opened the door to more roles in films such as Rome Adventure, Black Saddle, and A Rage to Live. She often played roles that showcased her wit and intelligence.
The Bob Newhart Show
Suzanne Pleshette’s most iconic role was playing Emily Hartley, the wise-cracking and loving wife of Bob Hartley (Bob Newhart) on The Bob Newhart Show in the 1970s. The show was a huge hit and ended up running for six seasons from 1972 to 1978. Pleshette’s portrayal of Emily earned her two Emmy Award nominations.
Her chemistry with Newhart was a major factor in the show’s success. Their scenes together were filled with humor and warmth that audiences loved. Emily became known for her signature giant hairdos, expansive wardrobe of maxi dresses, and her dry, sarcastic comebacks. Even decades later, many fans still think of Pleshette and Newhart together.
Later Acting Career
After The Bob Newhart Show ended, Pleshette continued working in television through the 80s and 90s. She made many guest appearances on shows like Murphy Brown, Will & Grace, 8 Simple Rules, and others. She also starred in a few short-lived sitcoms of her own like Suzanne Pleshette Is Maggie Briggs and Bridges to Cross.
Some of her most memorable movie roles in her later career include:
- Leona Helmsley in Leona Helmsley: The Queen of Mean (1990)
- Yente the Matchmaker in The Broadway Production of Fiddler on the Roof (1981)
- Clairee Belcher in Steel Magnolias (1989)
- The voice of Zira in The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride (1998)
She often played mothers, aunts, and best friend types given her witty and warm persona.
Marriage and Family
Pleshette was married three times in her life:
- Troy Donahue (actor) – Jan 1964 to Aug 1964 (divorced after 8 months)
- Tom Gallagher (oilman) – Jan 1968 to Dec 1983 (divorced after 15 years)
- Tom Poston (actor) – May 2001 to Apr 2007 (Poston died in 2007)
She did not have any children of her own, but was stepmother to Poston’s two children from a previous marriage.
Later Years and Death
In her later years, Pleshette went through some health issues. She was a long-time smoker, which contributed to respiratory problems. In 2000, she was diagnosed with lung cancer and had to undergo chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Thankfully the cancer went into remission after treatment.
However, in 2006 she was diagnosed with lung cancer again. She died from respiratory failure related to the cancer on January 19, 2008 at her Los Angeles home. She was 70 years old at the time of her death.
Just days before she died, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in honor of her contributions to television. Her star is located at 6259 Hollywood Blvd.
Legacy
Although her career spanned over 50 years, Suzanne Pleshette remains best known for her role on The Bob Newhart Show. Her witty and warm character of Emily Hartley left a lasting impression on audiences. She had wonderful comedic timing and great chemistry with her co-stars.
Pleshette was nominated for five Emmy awards, one Golden Globe award, and earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. After her death, she was included in TV Land’s “The Ultimate TV Mom” marathon honoring the best moms in television history.
While she is remembered most as Emily Hartley, Pleshette had a diverse career across TV, movies and theater. She played many memorable roles that highlighted her humor, intelligence and charm.
Conclusion
Suzanne Pleshette was an acclaimed actress best known for playing Emily Hartley on The Bob Newhart Show in the 1970s. Some key facts about her life and career include:
- Born in 1937 in New York City
- Began career as Broadway stage actress in late 1950s/early 1960s
- Breakthrough film role in The Geisha Boy (1962)
- Played Emily Hartley on The Bob Newhart Show from 1972-1978
- Emmy and Golden Globe nominated actress
- Continued acting in TV and movies throughout 1980s and 1990s
- Diagnosed with lung cancer twice in 2000 and 2006
- Died in 2008 at age 70 from cancer-related respiratory failure
- Best known for witty, warm character of Emily Hartley
- Left lasting impression as wise-cracking TV wife
Though her career was long and varied, Suzanne Pleshette’s portrayal of Emily Hartley remains her most iconic role. She brought humor and heart into the homes of audiences for 6 seasons through her signature mix of wit and warmth. Her comedic skills and immense talent will not be forgotten.