Isaiah Washington
Isaiah Washington is an American actor best known for his role as Dr. Preston Burke on the ABC television series Grey's Anatomy. He has also appeared on the show Bionic Woman.
Washington Given Second Chance by TV Bosses
Washington Given Second Chance by TV Bosses
HOLLYWOOD - Actor Isaiah Washington landed his first TV role after being fired from Grey's Anatomy for using a homophobic slur during an on-set fight because network bosses believe he deserves a second chance.
Washington was dismissed by bosses at TV network ABC earlier this summer--seven months after the behind-the-scenes fracas with costar Patrick Dempsey hit the headlines, prompting another costar, T.R. Knight, to 'come out' as a homosexual.
Washington publicly apologized for his comment and met with gay leaders to seek forgiveness--but it wasn't enough for him to keep his job.
On Monday it emerged Washington will guest star on NBC's upcoming Bionic Woman show, an update of the 1970s program starring Lindsay Wagner.
NBC executive producer David Eick says, "We believe in second chances. We embrace the gay community and hope they will watch."
He adds, "I guess that I still abide by the credo that no publicity is bad publicity and for every person that doesn't watch the show because they're sensitive to the controversy I figure that we'll get two who will because they're curious.
"Eventually there will be a new scandal and no one will be thinking of this."
Isaiah Washington
An intense and gifted African-American actor with chiseled good looks, Isaiah Washington forged a successful career in film and television before hitting it big as Dr. Preston Burke on the ABC medical drama, “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC, 2005- ). Honing his dramatic skills on the New York stage, Washington went on to work in more than 30 films, including Spike Lee’s “Clockers” (1995) and “Get on the Bus” (1996), and clocked in as guest star on a number of television series....
Full Biography
An intense and gifted African-American actor with chiseled good looks, Isaiah Washington forged a successful career in film and television before hitting it big as Dr. Preston Burke on the ABC medical drama, “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC, 2005- ). Honing his dramatic skills on the New York stage, Washington went on to work in more than 30 films, including Spike Lee’s “Clockers” (1995) and “Get on the Bus” (1996), and clocked in as guest star on a number of television series. Though reports surfaced in 2006 that Washington’s on-set antics have caused conflict, both on the set of “Grey’s” and on other projects as well, no one can deny the dedication he has shown his craft, putting him at the top of his game.
Born Aug. 3, 1963 in Houston, TX, Washington grew up in the southern city where he graduated from Willowridge High School in 1981. Recovering from a troubled adolescence (during an argument, he was shot in the hip at age 19), Washington went on to serve a four-year tour of duty in the United States Air Force before enrolling at Washington, D.C.’s Howard University to study drama. While studying at Howard, he landed a role in the Ntozake Shange play, “Spell #7.” Relocating to New York City after college, Washington became one of the founding members of the City Kids Repertory, a local theater group designed to engage children in the dramatic arts. Pursuing his craft on the New York stage, Washington appeared in productions of August Wilson’s “Fences,” and Thornton Wilder’s “The Skin of Our Teeth.”
Making the transition from stage to screen in 1991, Washington made his feature film debut portraying a hustler in the romantic comedy, “Strictly Business,” starring Halle Berry and Tommy Davidson. That same year, he debuted on television guesting on an episode of “Law & Order” (NBC, 1990- ). Landing more substantial roles as the years went by, Washington went on to appear in the Spike Lee big screen comedy, “Crooklyn” (1994), and turned in an affecting performance as Mekhi Phifer’s protective older brother in Lee’s next film, “Clockers” (1995). On television, Washington showed his versatility by guest-starring on cop dramas such as, “NYPD Blue” (ABC, 1993-2005) and “New York Undercover” (FOX, 1994-98), as well tickling the funny bone with an appearance on the sitcom, “Living Single” (FOX, 1993-98). Re-teaming with director Lee for two more films, Washington starred opposite Theresa Randle in the romantic comedy, “Girl 6” (1996) and portrayed a gay man on his way to participate in the Million Man March in “Get on the Bus” (1996).
After substantial roles in the loyal Lee’s films, Washington continued to work on the big screen, taking on smaller roles in films such as the urban romantic comedy, “Love Jones” (1997); Warren Betty’s political comedy, “Bulworth” (1998); and acclaimed director Steven Soderbergh’s hit, “Out Of Sight” (1998). He went on to guest star on the quirky Fox series, “Ally McBeal” (1997-2002) during its first season as well as up the quality of his work by starring opposite legendary actor and director Clint Eastwood as a man on death row in “True Crime” (1999). In 2000, Washington was nominated for his first NAACP Image Award for his performance as an executive of an upstart television network in “Dancing in September” (2000). That same year, he starred opposite the ill-fated singer/actress, Aaliyah and martial arts star Jet Li in the action flick “Romeo Must Die” (2000). Shifting gears as he could so impressively do, he co-starred with William H. Macy, Sam Rockwell and George Clooney as one of five hapless burglars in the Russo brothers’ comedy, “Welcome to Collinwood” (2002) and portrayed the first mate of an unlucky salvage team in the forgettable horror flick, “Ghost Ship” (2002). In 2003, Washington portrayed corrupt record producer Antoine Sartain in the flop, “Hollywood Homicide” (2003), opposite Harrison Ford and Josh Hartnett. Though Washington’s “Homicide” role was prominent, his character’s ultimate fate (being thrown off a building by Ford) led Washington to reevaluate the types of roles he was being offered.
Then fate intervened. Cast as renowned cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Preston Burke on the breakout midseason hit, “Grey’s Anatomy,” Washington found the career change he was looking for and the part of his career thus far. Though he was already a recognizable name with a solid list of credits, “Anatomy” allowed Washington to break out from the thuggish, corrupt characters he had often been cast as. He also enjoyed being one-half of a popular onscreen couple with intern Dr. Christina Yang (Sandra Oh). An unexpected smash hit with viewers, “Anatomy” went on to receive numerous Emmy and Golden Globe nominations – with Washington’s work on the series earning him the Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series in 2006. The success of “Grey’s” also afforded him a new sex symbol status, when named him one of television’s “Sexiest Men.”
Washington’s new career high did not come with out the inevitable low, however. At the apex of “Grey’s” popularity during the show’s second full season, tabloid reports surfaced in October of 2006 of an on-set scuffle between Washington and co-star Patrick Dempsey (Dr. Derek “McDreamy” Shepherd), which involved an alleged “choking” of Dempsey by Washington. Worse yet, news reports later surfaced that Washington had reportedly uttered a homophobic slur in reference to one of his “Anatomy” cast mates. In the days following the breaking story, just who that gay co-star was came to light when, after his hand was forced by press reports of the outburst, Washington’s co-star, T.R. Knight (Dr. George O’Malley) issued a statement announcing that he was gay. Eventually, Washington took responsibility for the incident and issued a public apology, but some damage had been done. The gay community called for Washington to be fired, but the show’s creator, Shonda Rhimes stood behind her actor, insisting no one was getting canned and all was back to normal on set.
Whether or not that was true, any illusions that all was back to normal were smashed in January 2007 when, during a press room interview with the cast following their Golden Globe win for “Best Drama,” Washington grabbed the mic to again insist, “I did not call T.R. a faggot.” A shocked press corps stood by uncomfortably as Rhimes, tried to move the conversation back to the win at hand, but the damage had been done. Washington’s co-star Katherine Heigl (Dr. Izzie Stevens) fumed on the red carpet after the incident that “he (Washington) just needs to not speak in pubic anymore.” She went on to vehemently defend her best friend, Knight, insisting that she was not “O.K.” with the word being used “again.” After the uncomfortable cast moved offstage, Washington denied to “Access Hollywood” (syndicated, 1996- ) that he ever said the word, insisting he would never say anything “so vile” against his co-star or any human being for that matter. Only days later, the heretofore quiet Knight appeared on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” (syndicated, 2003- ) to finally voice his side of the story – that Washington did, indeed call him the f-word. Because of Washington’s backstage comment and subsequent denial, the storm stirred up once again, with internet bloggers and mainstream columnists calling for ABC to fire Washington – an online petition even circulating to send a message to the actor and boycott the network which employed him.
Days after the Globes, Washington released the following statement: "“I apologize to T.R., my colleagues, the fans of the show and especially the lesbian and gay community for using a word that is unacceptable in any context or circumstance. By repeating the word Monday night, I marred what should have been a perfect night for everyone who works on "Grey’s Anatomy." I can neither defend nor explain my behavior. I can also no longer deny to myself that there are issues I obviously need to examine within my own soul, and I've asked for help. I know the power of words, especially those that demean. I realize that by using one filled with disrespect I have hurt more than T.R. and my colleagues. With one word, I’ve hurt everyone who has struggled for the respect so many of us take for granted. I welcome the chance to meet with leaders of the gay and lesbian community to apologize in person and to talk about what I can do to heal the wounds I’ve opened. T.R.’s courage throughout this entire episode speaks to his tremendous character. I hold his talent, and T.R. as a person, in high esteem. I know a mere apology will not end this, and I intend to let my future actions prove my sincerity." Washington would go on to film a PSA announcement about the negative power of words, which began airing on TV around the same time ABC Television Studios officials announced, shockingly, that Washington had been fired from the show. The offical word: that his contract was "not renewed" – which came on the heels of the announcement that Knight's contract had been renewed and that he had been given a raise. Washington responded by releasing the statement, “I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore,” through his publicist, Howard Bragman.
Patrick Dempsey
A charismatic, yet slightly geeky heartthrob of teen-pleasing films of the late 1980s, Patrick Dempsey succeeded in doing what few teen idols ever manage to do – disappear off the radar for several years before resurrecting their adult career as the resident hunk on one of the most popular TV shows of its time. Almost 20 years after riding that famous lawnmower to fame as the wannabe lady killer Ronald Miller in “Can’t Buy Me Love” (1987), Dempsey landed the part of the stylishly coiffed neurosurgeon Dr....
Full Biography
A charismatic, yet slightly geeky heartthrob of teen-pleasing films of the late 1980s, Patrick Dempsey succeeded in doing what few teen idols ever manage to do – disappear off the radar for several years before resurrecting their adult career as the resident hunk on one of the most popular TV shows of its time. Almost 20 years after riding that famous lawnmower to fame as the wannabe lady killer Ronald Miller in “Can’t Buy Me Love” (1987), Dempsey landed the part of the stylishly coiffed neurosurgeon Dr. Derek Shepherd on the monster hit, “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC, 2005- ). Hitting a career high with this role, Dempsey became a national obsession with the female contingent, all of whom wholeheartedly agreed that the actor lived up to his infamous moniker, “Dr. McDreamy.”
Born Patrick Galen Dempsey on Jan. 13, 1966 in Lewiston, ME to parents Amanda and William Dempsey, Dempsey grew up in Lewiston, attending St. Dominic Regional High School in the nearby town of Auburn. Diagnosed with dyslexia as a teenager, Dempsey struggled with the then misunderstood learning disability, but managed to shift focus from his weaker subjects to his talent for dance and acting. An avid juggler, he developed his own act and toured with the New England Vaudeville Circuit by age 15. Exhibiting a natural gift for performance, Dempsey won the Talent America Contest in 1981, catching the eye of an agent, who offered to audition the gangly youngster for the San Francisco production of “Torch Song Trilogy.” Portraying the role of David, Dempsey toured with the company for several months. He went on to perform with the Maine Acting Company in “On Golden Pond” and the international touring production of “Brighton Beach Memoirs.”
Making his feature film debut in 1985, Dempsey portrayed a Catholic school boy alongside Andrew McCarthy in the comedy “Heaven Help Us.” The following year, he made his television debut as Mike Damone in the short-lived “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” (1982) spin-off, “Fast Times” (CBS, 1986). Popular with young female audiences, Dempsey became a leading man in a number of ‘80s’ romantic comedies. Girls swooned over Dempsey as a nerdy high school senior who not only mows lawns for extra income (and seemingly really enjoys it) but who bribes a cheerleader into dating him in “Can’t Buy Me Love” (1987) – a role which earned Dempsey the 1988 Young Artist Award. Equally close to every teenage girls’ heart was the actor’s turn as a pizza deliveryman who offers up his “special services” in “Loverboy” (1987) to such comparatively older actresses as Carrie Fisher, Kirstie Alley and Kate Jackson. Portraying real-life teen lothario Sonny Wisecarver in “In the Mood” (1987), Dempsey’s on-screen roles began to mirror his personal life. Shocking his fans in 1987 – at the tender age of 21, he married his 48-year-old manager Rocky Parker.
Hoping to break out from his teen idol image, Dempsey began to take on different roles. He portrayed one of three brothers reunited for a cross-country road trip in “Coupe de Ville” (1990); co-starred alongside Christian Slater and Richard Grieco as gangster Meyer Lansky in the horrid mafia flick, “Mobsters” (1991), and portrayed a law student on the run opposite Kelly Preston in the aptly titled, “Run” (1991). Returning to his roots on the stage, Dempsey made his off-Broadway debut in a production of “The Subject was Roses” at the Roundabout Theatre. He went on to turn in a compelling performance as John F. Kennedy in the ABC miniseries “JFK: Reckless Youth” (1993) and went behind the camera to co-direct the family film, “Ava’s Magical Adventure” (1994) with real-life wife Parker. Unfortunately, Dempsey’s directorial debut went mostly unnoticed and he and Parker ended their seven-year marriage in 1994. Though Dempsey was able to find regular acting work during this time, the popularity he experienced in his early 20s had dwindled to an almost embarrassed acknowledgement from fans who had naturally moved on the next hunk-of-the-month. His struggle with dyslexia made the process of auditioning even more arduous for the actor.
Dempsey began seizing the only opportunities available to a former teen idol – supporting roles in a number of projects of varying quality and visibility. He appeared alongside Joe Pesci and Brendan Fraser as a Harvard student in “With Honors” (1994) and tuned in a compelling performance as a man who becomes embroiled in the cover-up of a murder in the television adaptation of Dominick Dunne’s “A Season in Purgatory” (1996). He starred opposite Michael Caine in the NBC adaptation of Jules Verne’s “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” (1997) and went on to share the screen with Ben Kingsley, portraying Rodya Raskolnikov in the television adaptation of Dostoyevskys’s “Crime and Punishment” (NBC, 1998). In 2000, Dempsey landed a role as a detective in the Wes Craven horror sequel, “Scream 3.”
In the first of his adult-hunk roles, Dempsey surprised many by effectively portraying a closeted sportscaster and love interest to Eric McCormack’s up-tight Will on a three-episode arc of “Will & Grace” (NBC, 1998-2006). Viewers of both sexes could not help but notice that Dempsey was maturing nicely. Next, he gave a touching performance as Sela Ward’s schizophrenic brother, Aaron on the award-winning ABC drama, “Once and Again” (1999-2002) – a role that earned Dempsey an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series. His career on a sudden upswing, he continued to effectively emanate sex appeal as Reese Witherspoon’s fiancé in the big screen romantic comedy, “Sweet Home Alabama” (2002). In a less showy part, he appeared as Washington Post cartoonist Ben Weissman opposite Hilary Swank and Anjelica Houston in the HBO suffragette drama “Iron Jawed Angels” (2004).
Still hoping to revisit the success he had experienced almost 20 years prior, Dempsey found the break he was looking for in 2005. Up for leads on two network medical dramas (he auditioned for the role of Dr. Gregory House on Fox’s “House,” which later went to Hugh Laurie), Dempsey landed the role of Dr. Derek Shepherd on the midseason hit “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC, 2005- ). In that rare bit of a luck few former teen idols experience a second time ‘round, Dempsey and his impressive head of hair quickly found himself back in the spotlight and back in the hearts of adoring female fans – some new, some old school torch carriers – this time as he approached age 40. Portraying the show’s lead Ellen Pompeo’s conflicted love interest, Dempsey’s character was dubbed “McDreamy” on the series, and with good reason. Dempsey’s affecting charm and charismatic performance on “Grey’s” earned him Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild nominations for Best Actor in a Dramatic Series.
The positive buzz the show enjoyed into his first full season came to a screeching halt in October of 2006 when Dempsey and co-star Isaiah Washington got into an on-set scuffle. Media coverage reported that Washington had lashed out at Dempsey – allegedly by way of choking McDreamy – and had thrown out a homophobic slur in reference to their co-star T.R. Knight (Dr. George O’Malley) for being late to the set. As the story allegedly went, Dempsey had verbally jumped to Knight’s defense for being late, which set off Washington and it all went downhill from there. Washington later issued a statement taking responsibility for his actions – more for manhandling the male star of the show, than for essentially forcing Knight to come out of the closet once word of the scuffle reached the press. In any case, Dempsey came out looking the hero, since it was he who had come to his gay co-star’s defense.
Once all the drama dust settled, Dempsey was able to parlay his incredible popularity on the small screen back to the big, returning to feature films by reuniting with “Angels” co-star Swank in the drama, “Freedom Writers” (2007). In the critically well received film, Dempsey portrayed supportive husband to Swank’s Long Beach teacher who attempts to inspire street-tough teens to reach their creative potential as writers.
T.R. Knight
Though known to television audiences as the sweet and endearing Dr. George O’Malley on the hit drama “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC, 2005- ), T.R. Knight was anything but shy and soft-spoken actor off screen. With a background primarily in theater, Knight honed his craft on the Minneapolis stage and went on to appear on Broadway in productions of “Noises Off” and “Tartuffe.” Landing a starring role on “Grey’s” the relative newcomer’s innate talent and acting ability shone through as the series went on to become a favorite with television viewers....
Full Biography
Though known to television audiences as the sweet and endearing Dr. George O’Malley on the hit drama “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC, 2005- ), T.R. Knight was anything but shy and soft-spoken actor off screen. With a background primarily in theater, Knight honed his craft on the Minneapolis stage and went on to appear on Broadway in productions of “Noises Off” and “Tartuffe.” Landing a starring role on “Grey’s” the relative newcomer’s innate talent and acting ability shone through as the series went on to become a favorite with television viewers. Knight received some unexpected press during the show’s highly-rated third season, when he was inadvertently outed by a fellow cast member in the heat of an argument, resulting in the actor releasing a formal statement confirming he was a gay man. Much to the relief of all who loved Knight and the show itself, the announcement seemed not to have a detrimental effect on his popularity – and would perhaps help open the door for more actors to feel comfortable coming out in the future.
Born Theodore Raymond Knight on March 26, 1973 in Minneapolis, MN, the youngster developed a passion for acting as a child growing up in one half of the Twin Cities. Nicknamed T.R. as a young child, he made his acting debut at the age of five as Tiny Tim in a Guthrie Theater production of “A Christmas Carol.” Foregoing college to pursue acting, Knight appeared in regional theater productions in Minneapolis, joining the Guthrie Theater’s acting company for two years before moving to New York City to pursue a career on Broadway. Knight quickly landed a number of roles in off-Broadway productions of “Macbeth,” “This Lime Tree Bower” and “The Hologram Theory.” Though living in the Big Apple, Knight returned to Minneapolis periodically to appear in productions of “Ah, Wilderness” and “Amadeus,” in which he starred in the title role.
Back in Manhattan, Knight appeared on Broadway in the 2001 revival of “Noises Off,” opposite stage legend Patti LuPone and Peter Gallagher. Making his film debut in 2002, Knight landed a small role in the fashion industry satire “Garmento.” The following year, he went on to perform in the Broadway revival of “Tartuffe,” and appeared off-Broadway as Brendan Hilliard in “Scattergood,” which earned Knight a 2003 Drama Desk nomination for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play. Branching out from theater, Knight went on to make his television debut as office intern Ryan Lemming on the short-lived sitcom, “Charlie Lawrence” (CBS, 2003) opposite Nathan Lane; pulled after only two episodes, the series introduced Knight to the harsh reality of television programming. Knight quickly landed a number of other guest-starring roles in television, however, appearing in episodes of “Frasier” (NBC, 1993-2004) in 2003, “Law & Order: Criminal Intent” (NBC, 2001- ) in 2004, and “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (CBS, 2000- ), also in 2004. Tired of the audition grind for TV guest spots, he returned to his first love of theater, starring in the off-Broadway production of “Boy” later that year.
Though relatively new to television and only three years after his first film role, Knight went on to land a career-breaking role in 2005 when he landed the part of self-deprecating, somewhat awkward surgical intern George O’Malley on the ABC midseason drama, “Grey’s Anatomy” (2005- ), rounding out an ensemble cast including Ellen Pompeo, Patrick Dempsey and Sandra Oh. Positioned as the dazed Everyman amid the frenetic brilliance of his peers, Knight nervously bumbled his way through some patients and shined with others, eventually securing the trust of his fellow interns and the respect of his superiors. His character most notably caught syphilis in the first few episodes. Performing well in its Sunday night time-slot, “Grey’s” went on to receive critical praise and a number of Emmy nominations in 2006.
Not long into the series’ third season, during which was moved to Thursday evenings to go head-to-head with television’s number one show, “C.S.I.: Crime Scene Investigation” (CBS, 2000), Knight made news for more than just his affable role when he came out publicly, announcing that he was gay in a statement to People magazine in October of 2006. News reports had surfaced that an on-set altercation between series stars Dempsey and Isaiah Washington was allegedly the result of Washington using an anti-gay slur directed at Knight. Knowing it was only so long before the press learned just who the anti-gay slur was directed toward, a seemingly unfazed Knight confronted the topic publicly and continued with the series.
All of this was disrupted, however, on what should have been a celebratory evening. At the January 2007 Golden Globes ceremony, “Grey’s” took home Best Drama prize. When the entire cast convened backstage to greet the press, Washington grabbed the mic after being questioned by the press about the previous fall’s on set incident, and declared that he “did not call T.R. a faggot.” The casual use of the word stunned the press corps and by all reports, visibly rattled the cast who left the stage uncomfortably. Katherine Heigl went so far as to vent to “Access Hollywood” (syndicated, 1996- ) moments later that she would “throw down” with anyone who hurt her best friend, Knight, and that Washington “should never speak in public again.” For his part, Washington denied ever using the anti-gay slur to reporters backstage, who smelled a renewed scandal brewing in their midst. Only days later, Knight – who had remained quiet since initially coming out of the closet the previous fall – felt the need to address Washington’s denial of using the hurtful word by going on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” (syndicated, 2003- ) to finally voice his side of the story. He did confirm that Washington called him a “faggot” during the throes of a fight with Dempsey and expressed confusion at why he (Washington) would deny it now. While Knight kept it classy, internet bloggers and television columnists called for Washington’s head on a platter, courtesy of ABC – which was receiving boycott threats from people outraged over the alleged behavior.
Lindsay Wagner
A tall, blonde actress who went from playing "The Bionic Woman" to becoming one of the most prolific TV-movie queens in the history of the genre, Lindsay Wagner managed to convey a quiet intelligence in her roles, whether through tears or athletics, or even pitching for Ford automobiles, as she has done in numerous TV commercial spots since the late 1980s.
Wagner once described her birthplace as an "Hispanic slum in L.A." (although her ancestry was not specified as Latino)....
Full Biography
A tall, blonde actress who went from playing "The Bionic Woman" to becoming one of the most prolific TV-movie queens in the history of the genre, Lindsay Wagner managed to convey a quiet intelligence in her roles, whether through tears or athletics, or even pitching for Ford automobiles, as she has done in numerous TV commercial spots since the late 1980s.
Wagner once described her birthplace as an "Hispanic slum in L.A." (although her ancestry was not specified as Latino). When she was 13, she became a Nina Blanchard model, but at age 14, began suffering from ulcers, a condition which lasted until she was 21 years old. Wagner quit modeling when she was 16, drifting into acting after dropping out of the University of Oregon after only two semesters. A meeting with a Universal casting director led to a role on "Marcus Welby, M.D." and a contract with the studio.
Wagner made her feature film debut in 1973 in Universal's "Two People," in which she was a West Virginian-born model who becomes involved with Peter Fonda, an army deserter. That same year, she starred in "The Paper Chase", playing the daughter of John Houseman and the object of Timothy Bottoms' affections. Although she would later play Sylvester Stallone's lady love in "Nighthawks" (1981), and also co-star in "Ricochet" (1991), TV beckoned early on in Wagner's career. In 1975, she made appearances on "The Six Million Dollar Man", as the female cyborg counterpart to Lee Majors' Colonel Steve Austin. In 1976, ABC gave her own series, "The Bionic Woman", which ran for a season on that network, a season on NBC, and made Wagner not just one of the first female action stars, but also won her an Emmy for her performance. She became a TV star, even headlining her own ABC variety special in 1977 called "Lindsay Wagner: Another Side of Me".
Although Wagner would later return to her Bionic character in TV-movies alongside Majors in the late 80s and early 90s, after the demise of the initial series run, she quickly moved into what would become her staple: playing thoughtful, intelligent women who find their strength and win the day in TV movies. While TV-movies were a staple of the small screen before Wagner began doing them, along with Jaclyn Smith, she all but defined the prototypical leading lady character in them. In 1979, Wagner starred in "The Two Worlds of Jennie Logan" and "The Incredible Journey of Dr. Meg Laurel" (both CBS). In the latter, she was a big city physician returning to her back-country roots. In 1980, she was the rags-to-riches boutique owner Billy Ikehorn in the CBS miniseries "Scruples", based on the Judith Krantz novel, and was in the Krantz-inspired "Princess Daisy" (NBC) in 1983. She was a mother returning to her family after years in a mental institution in "Memories Never Die" (CBS, 1982), recreated the role of Barbara Graham in the TV version of "I Want to Live" (ABC, 1983) and was a farm wife who creates havoc in a small town when she takes on the mayor, who is teaching anti-Semitic concepts in her son's high school history class in "Evil in Clear River" (ABC, 1988). Wagner was the flight attendant coping with a hijacking in "The Taking of Flight 847: The Uli Derickson Story" (NBC, 1989), the battered wife of a government official in "Shattered Dreams" (CBS, 1990), and a woman posing as a hooker to save her daughter in "Fighting for My Daughter" (ABC, 1995). Through this river of tears and trauma, Wagner did do a turn at comedy as a school principal in "Student Exchange" (ABC, 1987).
With her iconic show a hard act to follow, Wagner was less successful in attempts at series since her "Bionic" days. "Jessie" (ABC, 1984), in which she played a police department psychiatrist, failed, as did "Peaceable Kingdom" (CBS, 1989), in which she was the managing director of a zoo raising her three children on-site. Wagner's mellifluous voice has also been used for narration and she has hosted reality specials and series, such as "Scandals" (ABC, 1988) and "Against All Odds" (NBC, 1992).
HOLLYWOOD - Actor Isaiah Washington landed his first TV role after being fired from Grey's Anatomy for using a homophobic slur during an on-set fight because network bosses believe he deserves a second chance.Washington was dismissed by bosses at TV network ABC earlier this summer--seven months after the behind-the-scenes fracas with costar Patrick Dempsey hit the headlines, prompting another costar, T.R. Knight, to 'come out' as a homosexual.
Washington publicly apologized for his comment and met with gay leaders to seek forgiveness--but it wasn't enough for him to keep his job.
On Monday it emerged Washington will guest star on NBC's upcoming Bionic Woman show, an update of the 1970s program starring Lindsay Wagner.
NBC executive producer David Eick says, "We believe in second chances. We embrace the gay community and hope they will watch."
He adds, "I guess that I still abide by the credo that no publicity is bad publicity and for every person that doesn't watch the show because they're sensitive to the controversy I figure that we'll get two who will because they're curious.
"Eventually there will be a new scandal and no one will be thinking of this."
Isaiah Washington
An intense and gifted African-American actor with chiseled good looks, Isaiah Washington forged a successful career in film and television before hitting it big as Dr. Preston Burke on the ABC medical drama, “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC, 2005- ). Honing his dramatic skills on the New York stage, Washington went on to work in more than 30 films, including Spike Lee’s “Clockers” (1995) and “Get on the Bus” (1996), and clocked in as guest star on a number of television series....Full Biography
An intense and gifted African-American actor with chiseled good looks, Isaiah Washington forged a successful career in film and television before hitting it big as Dr. Preston Burke on the ABC medical drama, “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC, 2005- ). Honing his dramatic skills on the New York stage, Washington went on to work in more than 30 films, including Spike Lee’s “Clockers” (1995) and “Get on the Bus” (1996), and clocked in as guest star on a number of television series. Though reports surfaced in 2006 that Washington’s on-set antics have caused conflict, both on the set of “Grey’s” and on other projects as well, no one can deny the dedication he has shown his craft, putting him at the top of his game.
Born Aug. 3, 1963 in Houston, TX, Washington grew up in the southern city where he graduated from Willowridge High School in 1981. Recovering from a troubled adolescence (during an argument, he was shot in the hip at age 19), Washington went on to serve a four-year tour of duty in the United States Air Force before enrolling at Washington, D.C.’s Howard University to study drama. While studying at Howard, he landed a role in the Ntozake Shange play, “Spell #7.” Relocating to New York City after college, Washington became one of the founding members of the City Kids Repertory, a local theater group designed to engage children in the dramatic arts. Pursuing his craft on the New York stage, Washington appeared in productions of August Wilson’s “Fences,” and Thornton Wilder’s “The Skin of Our Teeth.”
Making the transition from stage to screen in 1991, Washington made his feature film debut portraying a hustler in the romantic comedy, “Strictly Business,” starring Halle Berry and Tommy Davidson. That same year, he debuted on television guesting on an episode of “Law & Order” (NBC, 1990- ). Landing more substantial roles as the years went by, Washington went on to appear in the Spike Lee big screen comedy, “Crooklyn” (1994), and turned in an affecting performance as Mekhi Phifer’s protective older brother in Lee’s next film, “Clockers” (1995). On television, Washington showed his versatility by guest-starring on cop dramas such as, “NYPD Blue” (ABC, 1993-2005) and “New York Undercover” (FOX, 1994-98), as well tickling the funny bone with an appearance on the sitcom, “Living Single” (FOX, 1993-98). Re-teaming with director Lee for two more films, Washington starred opposite Theresa Randle in the romantic comedy, “Girl 6” (1996) and portrayed a gay man on his way to participate in the Million Man March in “Get on the Bus” (1996).
After substantial roles in the loyal Lee’s films, Washington continued to work on the big screen, taking on smaller roles in films such as the urban romantic comedy, “Love Jones” (1997); Warren Betty’s political comedy, “Bulworth” (1998); and acclaimed director Steven Soderbergh’s hit, “Out Of Sight” (1998). He went on to guest star on the quirky Fox series, “Ally McBeal” (1997-2002) during its first season as well as up the quality of his work by starring opposite legendary actor and director Clint Eastwood as a man on death row in “True Crime” (1999). In 2000, Washington was nominated for his first NAACP Image Award for his performance as an executive of an upstart television network in “Dancing in September” (2000). That same year, he starred opposite the ill-fated singer/actress, Aaliyah and martial arts star Jet Li in the action flick “Romeo Must Die” (2000). Shifting gears as he could so impressively do, he co-starred with William H. Macy, Sam Rockwell and George Clooney as one of five hapless burglars in the Russo brothers’ comedy, “Welcome to Collinwood” (2002) and portrayed the first mate of an unlucky salvage team in the forgettable horror flick, “Ghost Ship” (2002). In 2003, Washington portrayed corrupt record producer Antoine Sartain in the flop, “Hollywood Homicide” (2003), opposite Harrison Ford and Josh Hartnett. Though Washington’s “Homicide” role was prominent, his character’s ultimate fate (being thrown off a building by Ford) led Washington to reevaluate the types of roles he was being offered.
Then fate intervened. Cast as renowned cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Preston Burke on the breakout midseason hit, “Grey’s Anatomy,” Washington found the career change he was looking for and the part of his career thus far. Though he was already a recognizable name with a solid list of credits, “Anatomy” allowed Washington to break out from the thuggish, corrupt characters he had often been cast as. He also enjoyed being one-half of a popular onscreen couple with intern Dr. Christina Yang (Sandra Oh). An unexpected smash hit with viewers, “Anatomy” went on to receive numerous Emmy and Golden Globe nominations – with Washington’s work on the series earning him the Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series in 2006. The success of “Grey’s” also afforded him a new sex symbol status, when named him one of television’s “Sexiest Men.”
Washington’s new career high did not come with out the inevitable low, however. At the apex of “Grey’s” popularity during the show’s second full season, tabloid reports surfaced in October of 2006 of an on-set scuffle between Washington and co-star Patrick Dempsey (Dr. Derek “McDreamy” Shepherd), which involved an alleged “choking” of Dempsey by Washington. Worse yet, news reports later surfaced that Washington had reportedly uttered a homophobic slur in reference to one of his “Anatomy” cast mates. In the days following the breaking story, just who that gay co-star was came to light when, after his hand was forced by press reports of the outburst, Washington’s co-star, T.R. Knight (Dr. George O’Malley) issued a statement announcing that he was gay. Eventually, Washington took responsibility for the incident and issued a public apology, but some damage had been done. The gay community called for Washington to be fired, but the show’s creator, Shonda Rhimes stood behind her actor, insisting no one was getting canned and all was back to normal on set.
Whether or not that was true, any illusions that all was back to normal were smashed in January 2007 when, during a press room interview with the cast following their Golden Globe win for “Best Drama,” Washington grabbed the mic to again insist, “I did not call T.R. a faggot.” A shocked press corps stood by uncomfortably as Rhimes, tried to move the conversation back to the win at hand, but the damage had been done. Washington’s co-star Katherine Heigl (Dr. Izzie Stevens) fumed on the red carpet after the incident that “he (Washington) just needs to not speak in pubic anymore.” She went on to vehemently defend her best friend, Knight, insisting that she was not “O.K.” with the word being used “again.” After the uncomfortable cast moved offstage, Washington denied to “Access Hollywood” (syndicated, 1996- ) that he ever said the word, insisting he would never say anything “so vile” against his co-star or any human being for that matter. Only days later, the heretofore quiet Knight appeared on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” (syndicated, 2003- ) to finally voice his side of the story – that Washington did, indeed call him the f-word. Because of Washington’s backstage comment and subsequent denial, the storm stirred up once again, with internet bloggers and mainstream columnists calling for ABC to fire Washington – an online petition even circulating to send a message to the actor and boycott the network which employed him.
Days after the Globes, Washington released the following statement: "“I apologize to T.R., my colleagues, the fans of the show and especially the lesbian and gay community for using a word that is unacceptable in any context or circumstance. By repeating the word Monday night, I marred what should have been a perfect night for everyone who works on "Grey’s Anatomy." I can neither defend nor explain my behavior. I can also no longer deny to myself that there are issues I obviously need to examine within my own soul, and I've asked for help. I know the power of words, especially those that demean. I realize that by using one filled with disrespect I have hurt more than T.R. and my colleagues. With one word, I’ve hurt everyone who has struggled for the respect so many of us take for granted. I welcome the chance to meet with leaders of the gay and lesbian community to apologize in person and to talk about what I can do to heal the wounds I’ve opened. T.R.’s courage throughout this entire episode speaks to his tremendous character. I hold his talent, and T.R. as a person, in high esteem. I know a mere apology will not end this, and I intend to let my future actions prove my sincerity." Washington would go on to film a PSA announcement about the negative power of words, which began airing on TV around the same time ABC Television Studios officials announced, shockingly, that Washington had been fired from the show. The offical word: that his contract was "not renewed" – which came on the heels of the announcement that Knight's contract had been renewed and that he had been given a raise. Washington responded by releasing the statement, “I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore,” through his publicist, Howard Bragman.
Patrick Dempsey
A charismatic, yet slightly geeky heartthrob of teen-pleasing films of the late 1980s, Patrick Dempsey succeeded in doing what few teen idols ever manage to do – disappear off the radar for several years before resurrecting their adult career as the resident hunk on one of the most popular TV shows of its time. Almost 20 years after riding that famous lawnmower to fame as the wannabe lady killer Ronald Miller in “Can’t Buy Me Love” (1987), Dempsey landed the part of the stylishly coiffed neurosurgeon Dr....Full Biography
A charismatic, yet slightly geeky heartthrob of teen-pleasing films of the late 1980s, Patrick Dempsey succeeded in doing what few teen idols ever manage to do – disappear off the radar for several years before resurrecting their adult career as the resident hunk on one of the most popular TV shows of its time. Almost 20 years after riding that famous lawnmower to fame as the wannabe lady killer Ronald Miller in “Can’t Buy Me Love” (1987), Dempsey landed the part of the stylishly coiffed neurosurgeon Dr. Derek Shepherd on the monster hit, “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC, 2005- ). Hitting a career high with this role, Dempsey became a national obsession with the female contingent, all of whom wholeheartedly agreed that the actor lived up to his infamous moniker, “Dr. McDreamy.”
Born Patrick Galen Dempsey on Jan. 13, 1966 in Lewiston, ME to parents Amanda and William Dempsey, Dempsey grew up in Lewiston, attending St. Dominic Regional High School in the nearby town of Auburn. Diagnosed with dyslexia as a teenager, Dempsey struggled with the then misunderstood learning disability, but managed to shift focus from his weaker subjects to his talent for dance and acting. An avid juggler, he developed his own act and toured with the New England Vaudeville Circuit by age 15. Exhibiting a natural gift for performance, Dempsey won the Talent America Contest in 1981, catching the eye of an agent, who offered to audition the gangly youngster for the San Francisco production of “Torch Song Trilogy.” Portraying the role of David, Dempsey toured with the company for several months. He went on to perform with the Maine Acting Company in “On Golden Pond” and the international touring production of “Brighton Beach Memoirs.”
Making his feature film debut in 1985, Dempsey portrayed a Catholic school boy alongside Andrew McCarthy in the comedy “Heaven Help Us.” The following year, he made his television debut as Mike Damone in the short-lived “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” (1982) spin-off, “Fast Times” (CBS, 1986). Popular with young female audiences, Dempsey became a leading man in a number of ‘80s’ romantic comedies. Girls swooned over Dempsey as a nerdy high school senior who not only mows lawns for extra income (and seemingly really enjoys it) but who bribes a cheerleader into dating him in “Can’t Buy Me Love” (1987) – a role which earned Dempsey the 1988 Young Artist Award. Equally close to every teenage girls’ heart was the actor’s turn as a pizza deliveryman who offers up his “special services” in “Loverboy” (1987) to such comparatively older actresses as Carrie Fisher, Kirstie Alley and Kate Jackson. Portraying real-life teen lothario Sonny Wisecarver in “In the Mood” (1987), Dempsey’s on-screen roles began to mirror his personal life. Shocking his fans in 1987 – at the tender age of 21, he married his 48-year-old manager Rocky Parker.
Hoping to break out from his teen idol image, Dempsey began to take on different roles. He portrayed one of three brothers reunited for a cross-country road trip in “Coupe de Ville” (1990); co-starred alongside Christian Slater and Richard Grieco as gangster Meyer Lansky in the horrid mafia flick, “Mobsters” (1991), and portrayed a law student on the run opposite Kelly Preston in the aptly titled, “Run” (1991). Returning to his roots on the stage, Dempsey made his off-Broadway debut in a production of “The Subject was Roses” at the Roundabout Theatre. He went on to turn in a compelling performance as John F. Kennedy in the ABC miniseries “JFK: Reckless Youth” (1993) and went behind the camera to co-direct the family film, “Ava’s Magical Adventure” (1994) with real-life wife Parker. Unfortunately, Dempsey’s directorial debut went mostly unnoticed and he and Parker ended their seven-year marriage in 1994. Though Dempsey was able to find regular acting work during this time, the popularity he experienced in his early 20s had dwindled to an almost embarrassed acknowledgement from fans who had naturally moved on the next hunk-of-the-month. His struggle with dyslexia made the process of auditioning even more arduous for the actor.
Dempsey began seizing the only opportunities available to a former teen idol – supporting roles in a number of projects of varying quality and visibility. He appeared alongside Joe Pesci and Brendan Fraser as a Harvard student in “With Honors” (1994) and tuned in a compelling performance as a man who becomes embroiled in the cover-up of a murder in the television adaptation of Dominick Dunne’s “A Season in Purgatory” (1996). He starred opposite Michael Caine in the NBC adaptation of Jules Verne’s “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” (1997) and went on to share the screen with Ben Kingsley, portraying Rodya Raskolnikov in the television adaptation of Dostoyevskys’s “Crime and Punishment” (NBC, 1998). In 2000, Dempsey landed a role as a detective in the Wes Craven horror sequel, “Scream 3.”
In the first of his adult-hunk roles, Dempsey surprised many by effectively portraying a closeted sportscaster and love interest to Eric McCormack’s up-tight Will on a three-episode arc of “Will & Grace” (NBC, 1998-2006). Viewers of both sexes could not help but notice that Dempsey was maturing nicely. Next, he gave a touching performance as Sela Ward’s schizophrenic brother, Aaron on the award-winning ABC drama, “Once and Again” (1999-2002) – a role that earned Dempsey an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series. His career on a sudden upswing, he continued to effectively emanate sex appeal as Reese Witherspoon’s fiancé in the big screen romantic comedy, “Sweet Home Alabama” (2002). In a less showy part, he appeared as Washington Post cartoonist Ben Weissman opposite Hilary Swank and Anjelica Houston in the HBO suffragette drama “Iron Jawed Angels” (2004).
Still hoping to revisit the success he had experienced almost 20 years prior, Dempsey found the break he was looking for in 2005. Up for leads on two network medical dramas (he auditioned for the role of Dr. Gregory House on Fox’s “House,” which later went to Hugh Laurie), Dempsey landed the role of Dr. Derek Shepherd on the midseason hit “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC, 2005- ). In that rare bit of a luck few former teen idols experience a second time ‘round, Dempsey and his impressive head of hair quickly found himself back in the spotlight and back in the hearts of adoring female fans – some new, some old school torch carriers – this time as he approached age 40. Portraying the show’s lead Ellen Pompeo’s conflicted love interest, Dempsey’s character was dubbed “McDreamy” on the series, and with good reason. Dempsey’s affecting charm and charismatic performance on “Grey’s” earned him Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild nominations for Best Actor in a Dramatic Series.
The positive buzz the show enjoyed into his first full season came to a screeching halt in October of 2006 when Dempsey and co-star Isaiah Washington got into an on-set scuffle. Media coverage reported that Washington had lashed out at Dempsey – allegedly by way of choking McDreamy – and had thrown out a homophobic slur in reference to their co-star T.R. Knight (Dr. George O’Malley) for being late to the set. As the story allegedly went, Dempsey had verbally jumped to Knight’s defense for being late, which set off Washington and it all went downhill from there. Washington later issued a statement taking responsibility for his actions – more for manhandling the male star of the show, than for essentially forcing Knight to come out of the closet once word of the scuffle reached the press. In any case, Dempsey came out looking the hero, since it was he who had come to his gay co-star’s defense.
Once all the drama dust settled, Dempsey was able to parlay his incredible popularity on the small screen back to the big, returning to feature films by reuniting with “Angels” co-star Swank in the drama, “Freedom Writers” (2007). In the critically well received film, Dempsey portrayed supportive husband to Swank’s Long Beach teacher who attempts to inspire street-tough teens to reach their creative potential as writers.
T.R. Knight
Though known to television audiences as the sweet and endearing Dr. George O’Malley on the hit drama “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC, 2005- ), T.R. Knight was anything but shy and soft-spoken actor off screen. With a background primarily in theater, Knight honed his craft on the Minneapolis stage and went on to appear on Broadway in productions of “Noises Off” and “Tartuffe.” Landing a starring role on “Grey’s” the relative newcomer’s innate talent and acting ability shone through as the series went on to become a favorite with television viewers....Full Biography
Though known to television audiences as the sweet and endearing Dr. George O’Malley on the hit drama “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC, 2005- ), T.R. Knight was anything but shy and soft-spoken actor off screen. With a background primarily in theater, Knight honed his craft on the Minneapolis stage and went on to appear on Broadway in productions of “Noises Off” and “Tartuffe.” Landing a starring role on “Grey’s” the relative newcomer’s innate talent and acting ability shone through as the series went on to become a favorite with television viewers. Knight received some unexpected press during the show’s highly-rated third season, when he was inadvertently outed by a fellow cast member in the heat of an argument, resulting in the actor releasing a formal statement confirming he was a gay man. Much to the relief of all who loved Knight and the show itself, the announcement seemed not to have a detrimental effect on his popularity – and would perhaps help open the door for more actors to feel comfortable coming out in the future.
Born Theodore Raymond Knight on March 26, 1973 in Minneapolis, MN, the youngster developed a passion for acting as a child growing up in one half of the Twin Cities. Nicknamed T.R. as a young child, he made his acting debut at the age of five as Tiny Tim in a Guthrie Theater production of “A Christmas Carol.” Foregoing college to pursue acting, Knight appeared in regional theater productions in Minneapolis, joining the Guthrie Theater’s acting company for two years before moving to New York City to pursue a career on Broadway. Knight quickly landed a number of roles in off-Broadway productions of “Macbeth,” “This Lime Tree Bower” and “The Hologram Theory.” Though living in the Big Apple, Knight returned to Minneapolis periodically to appear in productions of “Ah, Wilderness” and “Amadeus,” in which he starred in the title role.
Back in Manhattan, Knight appeared on Broadway in the 2001 revival of “Noises Off,” opposite stage legend Patti LuPone and Peter Gallagher. Making his film debut in 2002, Knight landed a small role in the fashion industry satire “Garmento.” The following year, he went on to perform in the Broadway revival of “Tartuffe,” and appeared off-Broadway as Brendan Hilliard in “Scattergood,” which earned Knight a 2003 Drama Desk nomination for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play. Branching out from theater, Knight went on to make his television debut as office intern Ryan Lemming on the short-lived sitcom, “Charlie Lawrence” (CBS, 2003) opposite Nathan Lane; pulled after only two episodes, the series introduced Knight to the harsh reality of television programming. Knight quickly landed a number of other guest-starring roles in television, however, appearing in episodes of “Frasier” (NBC, 1993-2004) in 2003, “Law & Order: Criminal Intent” (NBC, 2001- ) in 2004, and “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (CBS, 2000- ), also in 2004. Tired of the audition grind for TV guest spots, he returned to his first love of theater, starring in the off-Broadway production of “Boy” later that year.
Though relatively new to television and only three years after his first film role, Knight went on to land a career-breaking role in 2005 when he landed the part of self-deprecating, somewhat awkward surgical intern George O’Malley on the ABC midseason drama, “Grey’s Anatomy” (2005- ), rounding out an ensemble cast including Ellen Pompeo, Patrick Dempsey and Sandra Oh. Positioned as the dazed Everyman amid the frenetic brilliance of his peers, Knight nervously bumbled his way through some patients and shined with others, eventually securing the trust of his fellow interns and the respect of his superiors. His character most notably caught syphilis in the first few episodes. Performing well in its Sunday night time-slot, “Grey’s” went on to receive critical praise and a number of Emmy nominations in 2006.
Not long into the series’ third season, during which was moved to Thursday evenings to go head-to-head with television’s number one show, “C.S.I.: Crime Scene Investigation” (CBS, 2000), Knight made news for more than just his affable role when he came out publicly, announcing that he was gay in a statement to People magazine in October of 2006. News reports had surfaced that an on-set altercation between series stars Dempsey and Isaiah Washington was allegedly the result of Washington using an anti-gay slur directed at Knight. Knowing it was only so long before the press learned just who the anti-gay slur was directed toward, a seemingly unfazed Knight confronted the topic publicly and continued with the series.
All of this was disrupted, however, on what should have been a celebratory evening. At the January 2007 Golden Globes ceremony, “Grey’s” took home Best Drama prize. When the entire cast convened backstage to greet the press, Washington grabbed the mic after being questioned by the press about the previous fall’s on set incident, and declared that he “did not call T.R. a faggot.” The casual use of the word stunned the press corps and by all reports, visibly rattled the cast who left the stage uncomfortably. Katherine Heigl went so far as to vent to “Access Hollywood” (syndicated, 1996- ) moments later that she would “throw down” with anyone who hurt her best friend, Knight, and that Washington “should never speak in public again.” For his part, Washington denied ever using the anti-gay slur to reporters backstage, who smelled a renewed scandal brewing in their midst. Only days later, Knight – who had remained quiet since initially coming out of the closet the previous fall – felt the need to address Washington’s denial of using the hurtful word by going on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” (syndicated, 2003- ) to finally voice his side of the story. He did confirm that Washington called him a “faggot” during the throes of a fight with Dempsey and expressed confusion at why he (Washington) would deny it now. While Knight kept it classy, internet bloggers and television columnists called for Washington’s head on a platter, courtesy of ABC – which was receiving boycott threats from people outraged over the alleged behavior.
Lindsay Wagner
A tall, blonde actress who went from playing "The Bionic Woman" to becoming one of the most prolific TV-movie queens in the history of the genre, Lindsay Wagner managed to convey a quiet intelligence in her roles, whether through tears or athletics, or even pitching for Ford automobiles, as she has done in numerous TV commercial spots since the late 1980s.Wagner once described her birthplace as an "Hispanic slum in L.A." (although her ancestry was not specified as Latino)....
Full Biography
A tall, blonde actress who went from playing "The Bionic Woman" to becoming one of the most prolific TV-movie queens in the history of the genre, Lindsay Wagner managed to convey a quiet intelligence in her roles, whether through tears or athletics, or even pitching for Ford automobiles, as she has done in numerous TV commercial spots since the late 1980s.
Wagner once described her birthplace as an "Hispanic slum in L.A." (although her ancestry was not specified as Latino). When she was 13, she became a Nina Blanchard model, but at age 14, began suffering from ulcers, a condition which lasted until she was 21 years old. Wagner quit modeling when she was 16, drifting into acting after dropping out of the University of Oregon after only two semesters. A meeting with a Universal casting director led to a role on "Marcus Welby, M.D." and a contract with the studio.
Wagner made her feature film debut in 1973 in Universal's "Two People," in which she was a West Virginian-born model who becomes involved with Peter Fonda, an army deserter. That same year, she starred in "The Paper Chase", playing the daughter of John Houseman and the object of Timothy Bottoms' affections. Although she would later play Sylvester Stallone's lady love in "Nighthawks" (1981), and also co-star in "Ricochet" (1991), TV beckoned early on in Wagner's career. In 1975, she made appearances on "The Six Million Dollar Man", as the female cyborg counterpart to Lee Majors' Colonel Steve Austin. In 1976, ABC gave her own series, "The Bionic Woman", which ran for a season on that network, a season on NBC, and made Wagner not just one of the first female action stars, but also won her an Emmy for her performance. She became a TV star, even headlining her own ABC variety special in 1977 called "Lindsay Wagner: Another Side of Me".
Although Wagner would later return to her Bionic character in TV-movies alongside Majors in the late 80s and early 90s, after the demise of the initial series run, she quickly moved into what would become her staple: playing thoughtful, intelligent women who find their strength and win the day in TV movies. While TV-movies were a staple of the small screen before Wagner began doing them, along with Jaclyn Smith, she all but defined the prototypical leading lady character in them. In 1979, Wagner starred in "The Two Worlds of Jennie Logan" and "The Incredible Journey of Dr. Meg Laurel" (both CBS). In the latter, she was a big city physician returning to her back-country roots. In 1980, she was the rags-to-riches boutique owner Billy Ikehorn in the CBS miniseries "Scruples", based on the Judith Krantz novel, and was in the Krantz-inspired "Princess Daisy" (NBC) in 1983. She was a mother returning to her family after years in a mental institution in "Memories Never Die" (CBS, 1982), recreated the role of Barbara Graham in the TV version of "I Want to Live" (ABC, 1983) and was a farm wife who creates havoc in a small town when she takes on the mayor, who is teaching anti-Semitic concepts in her son's high school history class in "Evil in Clear River" (ABC, 1988). Wagner was the flight attendant coping with a hijacking in "The Taking of Flight 847: The Uli Derickson Story" (NBC, 1989), the battered wife of a government official in "Shattered Dreams" (CBS, 1990), and a woman posing as a hooker to save her daughter in "Fighting for My Daughter" (ABC, 1995). Through this river of tears and trauma, Wagner did do a turn at comedy as a school principal in "Student Exchange" (ABC, 1987).
With her iconic show a hard act to follow, Wagner was less successful in attempts at series since her "Bionic" days. "Jessie" (ABC, 1984), in which she played a police department psychiatrist, failed, as did "Peaceable Kingdom" (CBS, 1989), in which she was the managing director of a zoo raising her three children on-site. Wagner's mellifluous voice has also been used for narration and she has hosted reality specials and series, such as "Scandals" (ABC, 1988) and "Against All Odds" (NBC, 1992).
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