Susan Saint James, the Emmy-winning actress celebrated for her performances in McMillan & Wife and Kate & Allie, passed away on October 26, 2026, at the age of 80 following a battle with pancreatic cancer. Her passing has brought renewed attention to her husband, Dick Ebersol, the influential television executive who shared 45 years of marriage with her. The couple’s relationship began with an unexpected meeting on Saturday Night Live in 1981 and developed into one of the most enduring partnerships in American television.
Saint James was married three times during her life, but her relationship with Ebersol became her longest and most significant marriage. Together, they raised a family, navigated demanding entertainment careers and faced the devastating loss of their youngest son.
Who Was Susan Saint James’ Husband?
Susan Saint James’ husband was Dick Ebersol, an American television executive best known for his leadership at NBC Sports and his involvement in the early development of Saturday Night Live.
Born on July 28, 1947, Ebersol became one of the most influential figures in American sports broadcasting. His career included overseeing major television productions, Olympic Games coverage and professional sports programming.
He also played an important role in developing Saturday Night Live alongside creator Lorne Michaels during the show’s early years.
Despite their demanding careers, Saint James and Ebersol maintained a marriage that lasted more than four decades.
Their relationship became especially meaningful as they raised children and supported each other through personal challenges.
How Did Susan Saint James Meet Dick Ebersol?
Susan Saint James and Dick Ebersol first met in 1981 when the actress appeared as a guest host on Saturday Night Live.
At the time, Saint James was already an established television star, while Ebersol was working behind the scenes in television production.
Their connection developed almost immediately. According to accounts of their relationship, they went on a date shortly after rehearsals and quickly realized they shared a strong personal connection.
The romance moved at an unusually fast pace.
Just 42 days after meeting, Saint James and Ebersol married, beginning a partnership that would continue for 45 years.
Their whirlwind romance became one of the most memorable stories associated with the actress’s personal life.
Their Marriage and Family Life
Following their wedding in 1981, Susan Saint James and Dick Ebersol built a family while continuing their professional careers.
The couple welcomed three sons: Charlie Ebersol in 1982, Willie Ebersol in 1986 and Edward “Teddy” Ebersol in 1990.
Saint James also had two children from her previous marriage to Tom Lucas, daughter Sunshine and son Harmony.
Together, the five children became an important part of the couple’s family life.
Although Saint James remained connected to acting, she gradually reduced her television commitments to spend more time raising her children.
Ebersol continued developing his broadcasting career, eventually becoming chairman of NBC Sports.
Their marriage reflected a balance between professional achievement and personal responsibilities.
The Tragedy That Changed Their Family
One of the most difficult moments in Susan Saint James and Dick Ebersol’s marriage occurred on November 28, 2004.
A private charter aircraft carrying Ebersol and two of their sons crashed during takeoff at Montrose Regional Airport in Colorado.
Their youngest son, Teddy, was killed in the accident at just 14 years old.
Dick Ebersol and their older son Charlie survived, although both sustained serious injuries.
The tragedy profoundly affected the family and became a defining experience in their personal lives.
Saint James and Ebersol remained together through the devastating loss, supporting their surviving children and working to preserve Teddy’s memory through charitable initiatives.
The family subsequently became associated with programs honoring Teddy and supporting young people through sports and community activities.
Dick Ebersol’s Tribute to His Wife
Throughout their marriage, Dick Ebersol frequently acknowledged the importance of Susan Saint James in his personal life.
In his 2022 memoir, he described her as “the greatest partner I’ve ever had by far.”
The statement reflected the affection and admiration that characterized their relationship after decades together.
Their marriage had begun with a spontaneous romance but developed into a lasting partnership built around family, shared experiences and mutual support.
Saint James also became known for prioritizing her family over constant television appearances, particularly as her children grew older.
Their relationship continued until her passing in October 2026.
Susan Saint James’ Second Husband Tom Lucas
Before meeting Dick Ebersol, Susan Saint James was married to Hollywood makeup artist and business manager Tom Lucas.
The couple married in 1971, during a period when Saint James was gaining recognition for her television performances.
They welcomed their first child, Sunshine Lucas, in 1972, followed by their son Harmony Lucas in 1974.
Their family attracted occasional media attention because of their unconventional lifestyle and the distinctive names they chose for their children.
Saint James and Lucas divorced in 1977 after approximately six years of marriage.
Despite their separation, they reportedly maintained a friendly relationship.
Their marriage remained an important chapter in Saint James’ life because it marked her first experiences of motherhood.
Her First Marriage to Richard Neubert
Susan Saint James’ first husband was Richard Neubert, a writer and producer whom she married in 1967.
At the time, Saint James was still establishing herself in the entertainment industry.
Their relationship began during the early stages of her acting career, before she achieved widespread recognition through television.
However, the marriage lasted approximately one year.
The couple divorced in 1968 and did not have children together.
Saint James subsequently focused on her developing career before marrying Tom Lucas several years later.
Although her first marriage was brief, it formed part of the personal journey that eventually led to her long relationship with Ebersol.
Susan Saint James and Dick Ebersol’s Lasting Legacy
Susan Saint James and Dick Ebersol shared a relationship that extended well beyond their accomplishments in television.
Their marriage brought together two successful entertainment professionals who built a family while navigating the demands of public careers.
They experienced significant professional achievements, welcomed three sons together and became grandparents as their family expanded.
Their partnership also endured profound personal hardship following Teddy’s passing in 2004.
After 45 years of marriage, Ebersol remained Saint James’ husband until her passing on October 26, 2026.
While audiences will remember Susan Saint James for her television performances, her marriage to Dick Ebersol remains an equally meaningful part of her personal story, reflecting decades of companionship, family commitment and shared experiences.