Susan Dey: From Teen Star to Private Life – A Look at Her Journey

Actress Susan Dey gained widespread recognition in the 1970s, rising to fame at just 18 years old. She became a household name thanks to her role in The Partridge Family, a hit television series that aired from 1970 to 1974.

The show followed the lives of a musical family living in the fictional town of San Pueblo, California. Dey, who had been working as a model at the time, landed the role of Laurie Partridge, the eldest daughter in the musically talented family. Interestingly, she had no prior acting or singing experience before taking on the role.

Despite this, Dey won over audiences with her portrayal of Laurie, a kind and level-headed young woman. Over the course of four seasons, she became one of the most beloved characters on the show. The Partridge Family was an instant sensation, drawing millions of viewers in the U.S. and gaining an international fanbase, particularly in the United Kingdom.

The Challenges of Fame

While the show’s popularity brought Dey immense recognition, it also came with personal struggles. Reports surfaced that she battled an eating disorder during her time on the show, dropping to just 92 pounds. A television producer eventually confronted her about her health, which prompted her to adopt a healthier eating routine.

Dey’s co-star, David Cassidy, who played her on-screen brother Keith Partridge, also faced immense pressure from the show’s success. In his memoir C’mon, Get Happy: Fear and Loathing on the Partridge Family Bus, Cassidy detailed the overwhelming “mass hysteria” that surrounded his rising fame.

Cassidy became one of the biggest teen heartthrobs of the era, attracting millions of admirers worldwide. Among them was Susan Dey, who developed a deep affection for him. However, despite her feelings, they did not start dating until after the show had ended.

Their romance was brief, as Cassidy ended the relationship unexpectedly. He later shared personal details about Dey in his memoir, including his belief that she was too naive for him. This revelation deeply hurt Dey, and although they initially remained friends, she eventually cut ties with him entirely. In fact, she refused to attend a Partridge Family reunion years later, still upset over what he had revealed.

Susan Dey’s Career Beyond The Partridge Family

During her time on the show, Dey explored other creative endeavors, even writing her own book titled Susan Dey’s Secrets on Boys, Beauty, and Popularity.

Following the conclusion of The Partridge Family, she received numerous acting offers and built a successful career in television. She starred in over 20 TV movies, mainly in the drama genre, earning multiple award nominations. Over the years, she received three Emmy nominations and six Golden Globe nominations.

However, her most acclaimed role came in the 1980s when she portrayed Grace Van Owen on L.A. Law. Her performance as the Los Angeles County deputy district attorney, who later became a judge, earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. She remained on the show for six years, further solidifying her status as a respected actress.

Interestingly, Dey reportedly turned down the opportunity to play Sandy in the iconic musical Grease. This decision stands out even more when considering that Olivia Newton-John, who ultimately took the role of Sandy, was originally offered the part of Laurie in The Partridge Family. However, Newton-John’s manager convinced her to decline the offer, which paved the way for Dey’s breakout role.

Her Personal Life and Finding Love

Born in 1952 as Susan Hallock Dey, she grew up in Westchester County, New York. Her father was an editor for the Standard-Star newspaper in New Rochelle, while her mother worked as a nurse.

Throughout her life, Dey expressed a preference for relationships with older men. In a 1988 interview, she explained that she was drawn to them because they had clear goals and a sense of direction in life.

Her first marriage was to talent agent Lenny Hirshan, who was 25 years older than her. The couple tied the knot in 1976 and had a daughter, Sara, in 1978. However, their marriage ended in 1981.

In 1988, Dey married her current husband, television producer Bernard Sofronski. Their wedding was a small, private ceremony attended by close family and friends.

Reflecting on her relationship with Sofronski, she once shared in an interview with Woman’s Own Magazine:

“Bernie has helped me understand that love is a two-way street. Before I met him, I didn’t fully grasp what love meant. Now, I feel more energized, and each day, I allow myself to grow into my true self. Life is so much easier when you’re with someone you can truly trust.”

Life Away from the Spotlight

In recent years, Susan Dey has chosen to step away from the public eye. She has not appeared in any new television or film projects and is reportedly enjoying a quiet life in upstate New York with her husband.

Although she remains a beloved figure among fans of The Partridge Family and L.A. Law, she has distanced herself from Hollywood and does not participate in cast reunions or public appearances.

Her decision to live a more private life is a testament to her desire to focus on what truly matters to her—family, love, and personal growth. While she may no longer be in the spotlight, her impact on television history remains undeniable.

Final Thoughts

Susan Dey’s journey from a teenage actress to an award-winning star and, ultimately, a private individual is both inspiring and fascinating. She successfully transitioned from one of the most recognizable faces on television in the 1970s to a respected actress in the 1980s, all while navigating the challenges of fame and personal growth.

Though she has stepped away from Hollywood, her legacy continues through her unforgettable performances and the lasting impression she left on fans around the world.