Susan Dey: The Iconic Star of “The Partridge Family” and Her Journey Beyond the Screen

If you grew up in the ’70s, chances are you were hooked on the hit TV series, The Partridge Family. One of the most beloved characters on the show was Laurie Partridge, played by the beautiful and talented Susan Dey. Her portrayal of Laurie, the sensible and caring big sister in the musical sitcom, quickly won over audiences. But did you know that Susan had no prior acting experience when she landed this iconic role? Despite being a newcomer to the world of acting, she was a natural in front of the camera and captured the hearts of fans worldwide.

The series, which aired on ABC from 1970 to 1974, chronicled the adventures of the Partridge family—a band that toured the country in a vibrant, psychedelic school bus. The show was a lighthearted portrayal of family dynamics and musical performances, which resonated with viewers both in the United States and abroad. Its success even crossed the Atlantic, gaining a strong following in the United Kingdom. The chemistry among the cast members, especially the dynamic between Laurie and her older brother Keith, played by David Cassidy, was a big part of the show’s appeal.

While many fans swooned over David Cassidy’s character, Susan Dey herself was not immune to his charm. Off-screen, she harbored a major crush on David throughout the filming of The Partridge Family. Susan, like many teenage girls at the time, found herself drawn to David’s charisma and boyish good looks. However, despite her feelings, their relationship remained strictly professional during the show’s run. It wasn’t until after The Partridge Family ended that the two briefly dated.

Their romance, however, was short-lived. David Cassidy later opened up about their relationship in his memoir, C’mon, Get Happy: Fear and Loathing on the Partridge Family Bus. In the book, David revealed that he ended things because he believed Susan was too naive for him. This disclosure didn’t sit well with Susan, who felt betrayed by the personal details he shared publicly. Hurt by David’s comments, Susan reportedly decided to cut ties with him altogether. She was so upset that she refused to attend a cast reunion years later, firmly standing by her decision to distance herself from her former co-star.

Despite the fallout, Susan Dey’s career continued to thrive long after her days on The Partridge Family. She went on to star in various films and TV shows, showcasing her versatility as an actress. One of her most notable roles came in the legal drama series L.A. Law, where she played Grace Van Owen, a driven and intelligent attorney. Her performance in L.A. Law was critically acclaimed, earning her a Golden Globe Award. Throughout her career, Susan received six Golden Globe nominations and three Emmy nominations, cementing her status as a respected figure in Hollywood.

Interestingly, Susan made some significant career decisions along the way. For instance, she turned down the role of Sandy in the beloved musical Grease. The role eventually went to Olivia Newton-John, who became iconic in the part. In a twist of fate, Olivia had previously been considered for the role of Laurie Partridge but opted out based on her manager’s advice. Susan’s decision to pass on Grease didn’t slow her down, though, as she continued to make her mark in both television and film.

In addition to her acting career, Susan authored a book titled Susan Dey’s Secrets on Boys, Beauty, and Popularity. This book provided advice and insights aimed at young women navigating their teenage years. It showcased another side of Susan—one that wanted to connect with her fans on a more personal level and share the wisdom she gained from her own experiences in the spotlight.

As the years went by, Susan gradually stepped away from the public eye. Today, she lives a quiet life in New York with her husband and children. Although she may no longer be active in Hollywood, her legacy endures. Susan Dey will forever be remembered for the joy she brought to audiences as Laurie Partridge and for her captivating performance in L.A. Law. Her talent, beauty, and grace left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

While The Partridge Family may have ended decades ago, it still holds a special place in the hearts of fans who grew up watching the lovable, singing family travel from gig to gig in their colorful bus. The show’s nostalgic charm remains timeless, evoking fond memories for those who tuned in every week. And for many, Laurie Partridge will always be synonymous with the vibrant, talented Susan Dey.

Susan’s story is a testament to how an unexpected opportunity can lead to a lifelong impact. She came into the world of acting by chance, but her hard work, dedication, and natural talent ensured she became a beloved star of her time. Even though she has chosen to live a quieter life away from the spotlight, her influence on television history is undeniable. And for that, fans everywhere remain grateful for the laughter, music, and heartwarming moments she helped bring to life.