Susan Howard: The Actress and Cultural Footprint in Television History

Susan Howard secured a prominent place in television history through her definitive performances in major prime-time dramas, notably Dallas, and her substantial behind-the-scenes contributions as a screenwriter and conservative political activist. Emerging as a recognizable face of American television during the 1970s and 1980s, Howard balanced demanding network shooting schedules with advocacy work, bridging the worlds of classic serial drama and public policy representation.

Early Life and the Path to Professional Acting

Born Jana Lyn Herold on January 28, 1944, in Marshall, Texas, Susan Howard developed an early interest in the dramatic arts that guided her academic choices and early career trajectory. Growing up in East Texas, she participated in local theater and school productions before pursuing formal training. Her educational background laid the groundwork for a disciplined approach to character development, allowing her to transition smoothly from regional stage work to television guest spots in the late 1960s.

Before landing the television roles that defined her career, Howard accumulated standard credits in episodic television, appearing in popular Westerns and legal dramas of the era. These early appearances provided essential screen experience, teaching her how to navigate multicamera setups and perform under the rigorous production schedules typical of American studios during the network era. Her capacity to project authority and emotional vulnerability made her a natural fit for complex dramatic storytelling.

Breakthrough Roles: From Petrocelli to Dallas

Howard's career shifted toward national prominence when she cast as Maggie Petrocelli in the NBC legal drama Petrocelli, which ran from 1974 to 1975. Playing the supportive yet independent wife of attorney Tony Petrocelli (played by Barry Newman), Howard showcased her ability to ground high-stakes legal mysteries in domestic realism. Her performance earned her critical attention and a Golden Globe nomination in 1976 for Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Miniseries, or Television Film.

Following Petrocelli, Howard secured the role that would cement her legacy in television history: Donna Culver Krebbs on the CBS mega-hit Dallas. Joining the cast in 1979, Howard portrayed a proud, politically astute Texas rancher who navigated the treacherous waters of family and business rivalries alongside central figures like J.R. Ewing.

As Donna Culver Krebbs, Howard brought authenticity to a character embedded in the oil and cattle politics of Texas. She remained with the series for eight seasons, appearing in more than 130 episodes. Her tenure on Dallas coincided with the show's peak global popularity, making her face recognizable to millions of viewers worldwide during an era when prime-time soaps dominated international television culture.

Writing and Creative Contributions on Dallas

Beyond her work in front of the camera, Howard expanded her professional scope by contributing as a writer for Dallas. In an industry where acting talent rarely crossed the line into principal scriptwriting—particularly for women in long-running network serials—Howard authored several episodes of the series during the mid-1980s.

Her transition into the writers' room demonstrated a deep understanding of the show's continuity, character motivations, and structural demands. Writing for a powerhouse ensemble cast required balancing multiple plotlines involving corporate espionage, marital discord, and familial betrayal. By shaping the narrative arcs of her own character and others, Howard exerted a rare degree of creative control within the rigid framework of 1980s network television production.

Political Activism and Public Advocacy

Throughout her years on Dallas, Howard became increasingly known for her outspoken conservative political views within the entertainment industry. In an era when Hollywood was predominantly identified with liberal politics, Howard advocated openly for conservative causes, traditional values, and Republican candidates. Her public stances often placed her at the center of cultural debates concerning the role of public figures in political discourse.

In 1989, following her departure from Dallas, Howard co-hosted the Nashville Network program The 700 Club for a period, aligning her career further with media platforms reflecting her personal convictions. She also served on the board of directors for the National Rifle Association (NRA) during the late 1980s and early 1990s, becoming one of the most prominent entertainment figures to represent the organization's policy positions and legislative goals. Her advocacy extended to various cultural and educational initiatives, cementing her identity as both a television star and a dedicated political activist.

Legacy and Impact on Television History

Susan Howard's place in television history rests on her ability to anchor major prime-time productions with intelligence and poise. While many actors from the golden age of 1980s soap operas faded from public view, Howard's combination of dramatic credibility, writing credits, and cultural advocacy ensured a distinct legacy. She demonstrated that television performers could transcend the boundaries of assigned scripts to influence narrative direction and participate actively in national political debates.

Her work on Petrocelli and Dallas continues to be studied by television historians analyzing the evolution of the prime-time drama and the representation of strong, independent women in serialized formats. Whether viewed through the lens of classic television programming or the history of conservative political activism in media, Susan Howard remains a compelling figure of twentieth-century American entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Susan Howard's most famous television role?

Susan Howard is best known for playing Donna Culver Krebbs on the CBS prime-time drama Dallas from 1979 to 1987. She appeared in over 130 episodes of the series, earning widespread international recognition. Prior to Dallas, she gained critical acclaim starring as Maggie Petrocelli in the legal drama Petrocelli.

Did Susan Howard write any episodes of Dallas?

Yes, Howard contributed as a writer for Dallas during her tenure on the show. She authored multiple scripts in the mid-1980s, bridging her work as a primary cast member with creative input behind the scenes of the long-running serial.

Did Susan Howard receive any major acting awards or nominations?

Yes, Howard received a Golden Globe nomination in 1976 for Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Miniseries, or Television Film for her performance as Maggie Petrocelli in the NBC drama Petrocelli.

What political activities is Susan Howard known for?

Howard is well known for her outspoken conservative activism within the entertainment industry. She served on the board of directors for the National Rifle Association (NRA) and has actively campaigned for conservative political candidates and traditional values throughout her career.

Is Susan Howard still active in acting?

Howard stepped away from regular television acting in the late 20th century, choosing to focus on private life, writing, and political advocacy. Her recorded television career remains defined by her landmark contributions to 1970s and 1980s network television.