Knots Landing Cast List

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Updated April 9, 2020 52.6K views 31 items

Knots Landing cast list, including photos of the actors when available. This list includes all of the Knots Landing main actors and actresses, so if they are an integral part of the show you'll find them below. You can various bits of trivia about these Knots Landing stars, such as where the actor was born and what their year of birth is. This cast list of actors from Knots Landing focuses primarily on the main characters, but there may be a few actors who played smaller roles on Knots Landing that are on here as well.

This list includes Joan Van Ark Marcia Cross and more.

If you are wondering, "Who are the actors from Knots Landing?" or "Who starred on Knots Landing?" then this list will help you answer those questions.

In most cases you can click on the names of these popular Knots Landing actors and actresses to find out more information about them. If you're looking for a particular Knots Landing actor or actress, then type their name into the "search" bar to find them directly.
  • Alec Baldwin
    30 Rock, Knots Landing, Clerks: The Animated Series
    Alec Baldwin, a renowned figure in the world of entertainment, is an American actor, writer, comedian, film producer, and political activist. Born on April 3, 1958, in Amityville, New York, he is the eldest of four brothers, all of whom have made their mark in Hollywood. Baldwin's illustrious career spans over three decades, kicking off with his Broadway debut in 1986's "Loot" which earned him a Theatre World Award. Baldwin's acting prowess extends to both the small and big screens. He gained widespread recognition for his role in the television drama, "Knots Landing" during the late 1980s, but his real breakthrough came with the film "The Hunt for Red October," where his portrayal of Jack Ryan was highly acclaimed. His talent does not stop at dramatic roles; Baldwin showcased his comedic flair in the TV show "30 Rock," earning two Emmy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and seven Screen Actors Guild Awards. Beyond acting, Baldwin has also demonstrated a knack for writing and production. He has written several books, including "A Promise to Ourselves" and "Nevertheless: A Memoir." As a producer, he has been involved in numerous successful productions, such as "The Aviator" and "Nuremberg: Infamy on Trial." Baldwin's influence extends to political activism as well, advocating for causes like animal rights and campaign finance reform. His multifaceted career and contributions to various fields make Alec Baldwin a prominent figure in contemporary culture.
  • Ava Gardner, born on December 24, 1922, in Smithfield, North Carolina, was a force to be reckoned with in the golden era of Hollywood. With her striking beauty and raw talent, she quickly rose to become one of the most iconic actresses of her time. Her journey from a humble upbringing as the youngest of seven children to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood is nothing short of remarkable. Long before her death on January 25, 1990, Gardner left her mark on the film industry. Gardner's career took off when she signed a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) in 1941. She became known for her compelling performances in a string of successful films throughout the 1940s and 50s. Some of her most recognized roles include her Oscar-nominated performance in Mogambo (1953), alongside Clark Gable, and The Night of the Iguana (1964), directed by John Huston. Her acting prowess, combined with her distinctive allure, made her a beloved figure in Hollywood and beyond. Away from the silver screen, Gardner led a colorful life, marked by high-profile relationships and a spirited personality that often challenged societal norms. She was married three times, most notably to Frank Sinatra, with whom she shared a tumultuous bond. Despite the controversies and struggles that often surrounded her personal life, Gardner remained unapologetically herself, living life on her own terms. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of actresses, embodying the timeless appeal of a true Hollywood star.
  • Claudia Lonow
    Knots Landing
    Claudia Lonow (born January 26, 1963) is an American actress, comedian, television writer and producer.
  • Constance McCashin
    Knots Landing
    Constance McCashin (born June 18, 1947) is an American psychotherapist and former actress, best known for her role as Laura Avery Sumner in the CBS prime time soap opera, Knots Landing.
  • Bruce Greenwood
    Young Justice, St. Elsewhere, The River
    Bruce Greenwood, a Canadian actor and producer, carved a name for himself in both the film and television industry. Born on August 12, 1956, in Noranda, Quebec, Canada as Stuart Bruce Greenwood, his journey began with an interest in drama during his high school years. Despite having a degree in philosophy and economics from the University of British Columbia, Greenwood's passion for acting led him to the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York. As an accomplished actor, Greenwood has appeared in over 150 films and television shows since beginning his career in the late 1970s. Notably, he gained recognition for his roles in Star Trek (2009) where he portrayed Captain Christopher Pike and Thirteen Days (2000) portraying President John F. Kennedy, which earned him a Satellite Award for Best Supporting Actor. His versatility as an actor extends to voice work, with roles in animated productions like Batman: Under the Red Hood and Young Justice. Off-screen, Greenwood is also recognized for his contributions as a producer. He co-produced the critically acclaimed series The River (2012), showcasing his talents beyond acting. His career longevity, dynamic range of characters, and dedication to the craft have established Greenwood as one of the most respected figures in the entertainment industry.
  • Donna Mills
    Knots Landing, Love Is a Many Splendored Thing, Alice in Wonderland
    Donna Jean Miller, better known as Donna Mills (born December 11, 1940), is an American actress and producer. She began her television career in 1966 with a recurring role on The Secret Storm, and in the same year appeared on Broadway in the Woody Allen comedy Don't Drink the Water. She made her film debut the following year in The Incident. She then starred for three years in the soap opera Love is a Many Splendored Thing (1967–70), before starring as Tobie Williams, the girlfriend of Clint Eastwood's character in the 1971 cult film Play Misty for Me. Mills landed the role of Abby Cunningham on the primetime soap opera Knots Landing in 1980 and was a regular on the show until 1989. For this role, she won the Soap Opera Digest Award for Outstanding Villainess three times, in 1986, 1988, and 1989. She has since starred in several TV movies, including False Arrest (1991), In My Daughter's Name (1992), Dangerous Intentions (1995), The Stepford Husbands (1996), and Ladies of the House (2008). In 2014, she joined the cast of long-running daytime soap opera General Hospital, for which she won a 2015 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Special Guest Performer in a Drama Series.
  • Joan Van Ark
    Knots Landing, McMillan & Wife, Thundarr the Barbarian
    Joan Van Ark, renowned for her exceptional talent in the world of acting, has left an indelible mark on both the small and big screens. Born on June 16, 1943, in New York City, she spent her formative years in Boulder, Colorado, where her passion for performance was kindled. A graduate of Yale School of Drama, Joan also holds the distinction of being the youngest student ever admitted into the prestigious Actors Studio. Van Ark's career in television and film spans over five decades, with her breakthrough role coming in 1978 as Valene Ewing in the popular soap opera Knots Landing. Her portrayal of the complex character earned her widespread recognition and critical acclaim, resulting in a Primetime Emmy nomination and a Soap Opera Digest Award. Beyond her iconic role in Knots Landing, Joan has showcased her versatility with appearances in numerous other television series including Dallas, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Nip/Tuck. Apart from her extensive television work, Joan Van Ark has also made a significant impact on stage. She is notably one of the few American actresses to have performed at London's Royal Shakespeare Company, demonstrating her commitment to honing her craft. Her stage repertoire includes performances in plays like The School for Wives, for which she received a Tony nomination. Joan's contribution to the entertainment industry is undeniable, reflecting a career defined by dedication, resilience, and an enduring love for storytelling.
  • Julie Harris
    Knots Landing, Backstairs at the White House, The Civil War
    Julie Harris may refer to: Julie Harris (actress) (1925–2013), American actress Julie Harris (costume designer) (1921–2015), British costume designer Julie Harris (cricketer) (born 1960), New Zealand cricketer Patsy Palmer (born 1972), English actress whose birth name was Julie Anne Harris
  • Kathleen Noone
    Knots Landing, All My Children, Sunset Beach
    Kathleen Noone (born Kathleen O'Meara; January 8, 1945) is an American actress. She began her career as a singer in nightclubs and performed in musicals in off-Broadway stage, before making her television debut in the CBS daytime soap opera, As the World Turns (1975–76). From 1977 to 1989, Noone played Ellen Shepherd Dalton on the ABC daytime soap opera, All My Children. For this role, she won Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 1987. In 1990, Noone moved to prime time, starring as villainous Claudia Whittaker in the CBS series, Knots Landing (1990–1993). She returned to daytime television as Bette Katzenkazrahi on NBC's Sunset Beach (1997–1999), for which she received another Daytime Emmy Award nomination. She also has had the recurring roles on L.A. Law, Party of Five, According to Jim, and Dexter.
  • Don Murray
    Knots Landing, The Stepford Children, Sons and Daughters (1991)
    Donald Patrick Murray (July 31, 1929 – February 2, 2024) was an American actor. Murray is best known for his breakout performance in the film Bus Stop (1956) with Marilyn Monroe, which earned him a nomination for Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Murray's other theatrical films include A Hatful of Rain (1957), Shake Hands with the Devil (1959) with James Cagney, One Foot in Hell (1960) with Alan Ladd, The Hoodlum Priest (1961), Advise & Consent (1962) with Henry Fonda and Charles Laughton, Baby the Rain Must Fall (1965) with Steve McQueen, Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972), Deadly Hero (1975) and Francis Ford Coppola's Peggy Sue Got Married (1986). He starred in television series such as The Outcasts (1968–1969), Knots Landing (1979–1981) and Twin Peaks (2017).
  • Kevin Dobson
    Knots Landing, Kojak, Knots Landing: Back to the Cul-de-Sac
    Kevin Patrick Dobson (born March 18, 1943) is an American film and television actor, best known for his roles as Detective Bobby Crocker, the trusted protege of Lt. Theo Kojak (played by Telly Savalas) in the CBS crime drama Kojak (1973–1978), and as M. Patrick "Mack" MacKenzie in the soap opera Knots Landing (1982–1993). On April 1, 2008, Dobson premiered on the daytime soap opera Days of Our Lives in the role of Mickey Horton.
  • Michele Lee
    Knots Landing, The Gong Show, Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer
    Michele Lee (born June 24, 1942) is an American actress, singer, dancer, producer and director. She is known for her role as Karen Cooper Fairgate MacKenzie on the 1980s prime-time soap opera Knots Landing (1979–93), for which she was nominated for a 1982 Emmy Award and won the Soap Opera Digest Award for Best Actress in 1988, 1991 and 1992. She was the only performer to appear in all 344 episodes of the series. Lee began her career on Broadway in Vintage 60 (1960) and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (1961). She made her movie debut in the film version of the latter in 1967. Her other film appearances include the Disney film The Love Bug (1968), The Comic (1969) and Along Came Polly (2004). She was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 1974 for Seesaw, and for the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play in 2001 for The Tale of the Allergist's Wife. She also played the title role in the 1998 TV film Scandalous Me: The Jacqueline Susann Story, and Madame Morrible in the Broadway musical Wicked in 2015.
  • Michelle Phillips
    Knots Landing, Hotel, Malibu Shores
    Michelle Phillips (born Holly Michelle Gilliam; June 4, 1944) is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She rose to fame as a vocalist in the musical quartet The Mamas and the Papas in the mid-1960s. Phillips garnered critical acclaim for her voice, which was deemed by Time magazine as the "purest soprano in pop music." She later established a successful career as an actress in film and television in the 1970s. Phillips is the last living original member of the Mamas and the Papas. A native of Long Beach, California, she spent her early life in Los Angeles and Mexico City, raised by her widowed father. While working as a model in San Francisco, she met and married John Phillips in 1962, and went on to co-found the vocal group the Mamas and the Papas in 1965. The band rose to fame with their popular singles "California Dreamin'" and "Creeque Alley", both of which she co-wrote. They released five studio albums before their dissolution in 1970. With John Phillips, she gave birth to a daughter, singer Chynna Phillips. After the breakup of the Mamas and the Papas and her divorce from John Phillips, she transitioned into acting, appearing in a supporting part in The Last Movie (1971) before being cast as Billie Frechette in the critically acclaimed crime biopic Dillinger (1973), for which she was nominated for a Golden Globe Award. She went on to appear in numerous films throughout the 1970s including Ken Russell's Valentino (1977), playing Natacha Rambova, and the thriller Bloodline (1979). She released her first and only solo album, Victim of Romance, in 1977. Phillips became a main cast member on the series Knots Landing from 1987 to 1993, portraying Anne Matheson, the mother of Paige Matheson (portrayed by Nicollette Sheridan). She subsequently had supporting roles in the comedy Let It Ride (1989), and the psychological thriller Scissors (1991). Phillips continued to appear in independent films after the millennium with supporting parts in Jane White is Sick and Twisted (2002) and Kids in America (2005), and had recurring guest roles on the television series That's Life (2001–2002) and 7th Heaven (2001–2004). Phillips was an outspoken critic of the Bush administration in the mid-2000s, and has also advocated the legalization of recreational cannabis.
  • Doug Sheehan
    Clueless, Day by Day
    Douglas "Doug" Stuart Sheehan (born April 27, 1949) is an American actor who played Ben Gibson throughout four seasons of the prime-time drama Knots Landing from 1983 to 1987. His character was the second husband of Valene Ewing (Joan Van Ark). His first major role was as Joe Kelly on the daytime soap opera General Hospital from 1979 to 1982. He also played one of the leads in Day by Day as well as Mel Horowitz on Clueless from 1997 to 1999 replacing Michael Lerner. He also appeared on Sabrina the Teenage Witch as Sabrina's father.
  • Nicollette Sheridan
    Desperate Housewives, Knots Landing, The Legend of Tarzan
    Nicollette Sheridan (born November 21, 1963) is an English-American actress, writer and producer. She began her career as a fashion model, before landing a role in the short-lived ABC primetime soap opera Paper Dolls in 1984. The following year, she starred in the romantic comedy film The Sure Thing. Sheridan is best known for her roles on television. From 1986 to 1993, she played Paige Matheson on the CBS primetime soap opera Knots Landing, for which she won two Soap Opera Digest Awards. She later had leading roles in numerous made-for-television movies and miniseries, including Lucky Chances (1990), Virus (1995), and The People Next Door (1996). She has also made a number of feature film appearances, including roles in Noises Off (1992), Spy Hard (1996), Beverly Hills Ninja (1997), and Code Name: The Cleaner (2007). In 2004, Sheridan began starring as Edie Britt in the ABC comedy-drama series Desperate Housewives, a role she played until 2009, for which she received a nomination for a Golden Globe award. She portrayed Alexis Carrington in The CW primetime soap opera reboot Dynasty from 2018 to 2019.
  • Patrick Petersen
    Knots Landing, The Kallikaks
    Patrick Petersen (born August 9, 1966) is an American actor best known for his role as Michael Fairgate in the television drama Knots Landing. He played the role from episode one on December 27, 1979 to May 16, 1991, reprising the part for Knots Landing: Back to the Cul-de-Sac in May 1997. Patrick Petersen is brother of actor Chris Petersen.Petersen also was regular cast member on the short-lived sitcom The Kallikaks (1977), and co-starred in films Alligator (1980) and The Little Dragons (1980).Since retiring, Petersen owns a health-food business. He is married with two children.
  • Stacy Galina
    Knots Landing, Hidden Hills, Knots Landing: Back to the Cul-de-Sac
    Stacy Galina (born September 24, 1966) is an American television actress, best known for her role as Kate Whittaker in the CBS prime time soap opera Knots Landing.
  • Ted Shackelford
    Knots Landing, The Young and the Restless, Another World
    Theodore Tillman Shackelford III (born June 23, 1946) is an American actor. He played Gary Ewing in the CBS television series Knots Landing (1979–1993); since 2006, he has appeared in a recurring role on the CBS soap The Young and the Restless, portraying twin brothers William and Jeffrey Bardwell.
  • Gary Oldman
    Dramarama
    Gary Oldman, born on March 21, 1958, in London, England, is an esteemed actor and filmmaker who has made a significant impact on the international film industry. His extensive career spans over four decades, with a versatile range of roles across various genres. Oldman's exceptional commitment to his characters, combined with his ability to embody diverse personas, has solidified his status as one of the most respected actors of his generation. Oldman's professional journey began in theater after graduating from the Rose Bruford College of Speech and Drama in 1979. He made his film debut in 1982 with Remembrance, but it was his portrayal of Sid Vicious in Sid and Nancy (1986) that garnered him international recognition. Over the years, he has delivered compelling performances in films such as JFK (1991), Dracula (1992), and Leon: The Professional (1994). His role as Sirius Black in the Harry Potter series and as Commissioner Gordon in the Dark Knight trilogy have additionally endeared him to a newer, younger audience. Oldman's work extends beyond acting. He stepped into the shoes of a director with Nil by Mouth (1997), a film inspired by his own upbringing in South London. This film won the BAFTA for Best British Film and was selected for the main competition at the Cannes Film Festival. In 2018, Oldman received the Academy Award for Best Actor for his transformative performance as Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour, showcasing his extraordinary talent and dedication to his craft. His contribution to cinema has been recognized with numerous awards and nominations, making Gary Oldman a truly influential figure in the world of entertainment.
  • Tonya Crowe
    Knots Landing
    Tonya Crowe (born January 24, 1971) is an American actress, best known for playing Olivia Cunningham, the daughter of Donna Mills's Abby Cunningham, in the CBS prime time soap opera, Knots Landing, a role she played from 1980 to 1990 as well as in the reunion miniseries Knots Landing: Back to the Cul-de-Sac (1997). She received three Soap Opera Digest Awards for Outstanding Actress in a Supporting Role: Prime Time., and well as Young Artist Award for Best Young Actress in a Nighttime Drama Series. Crowe received ten total Young Artist Award nominations during the 1980s for her television performances. Crowe also had a recurring role on the ABC sitcom Who's the Boss?, and guest starred on CHiPs, Trapper John, M.D. and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
  • William Devane
    24, Knots Landing, Crumbs
    William Joseph Devane (born September 5, 1939) is an American film, television and theatre actor, known for his role as Greg Sumner on the primetime soap opera Knots Landing (1983–1993) and as James Heller on the Fox serial drama 24 (2005–2007), the role he reprised in Live Another Day (2014). He is also known for his supporting roles in films such as McCabe & Mrs. Miller (1971), Family Plot (1976), Marathon Man (1976), Timestalkers (1987) and Space Cowboys (2000).
  • Helen Hunt
    Mad About You, Empire Falls, The Swiss Family Robinson
    Helen Hunt, a laudable figure in the realm of entertainment, has established an indelible legacy through her diverse roles and remarkable performances. Born on June 15, 1963, in Culver City, California, she embarked on her acting journey at the tender age of eight. Her father, Gordon Hunt, a revered director and acting coach, was instrumental in shaping her early career. Hunt's formal education occurred at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she studied drama, but she withdrew after one year to focus entirely on her acting career. Hunt's breakthrough role was Jamie Buchman in the hit television series Mad About You, which aired from 1992 to 1999. This role earned her four consecutive Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series, thereby solidifying her position in Hollywood. However, her talents were not confined to the small screen. In 1997, Hunt delivered a powerful performance in the film As Good As It Gets, playing a waitress with a sick child. This performance won her the coveted Academy Award for Best Actress, making her one of the handful of actors to win an Oscar while starring in a television series. In addition to her acting prowess, Hunt has also showcased her skills behind the camera. She made her directorial debut with the 2007 film Then She Found Me, in which she also starred. Over the years, she has directed episodes of several high-profile television shows, including This Is Us, House of Lies, and Feud. Despite her vast accomplishments, Helen Hunt remains humble and dedicated to her craft. Her enduring commitment to acting and directing continues to inspire and influence generations of performers.
  • Larry Riley
    Knots Landing, The Doctors, Stir Crazy
    Larry Riley (June 20, 1953 – June 6, 1992) was an American actor and musician, best known for his role as C.J. Memphis in the film A Soldier's Story (1984) and as Frank Williams in the prime-time TV soap opera Knots Landing.
  • Jane Elliot
    General Hospital, Days of Our Lives, A Flame in the Wind
    Jane Elliot (born January 17, 1947) is an American actress, best known for her role as Tracy Quartermaine in the ABC daytime soap opera, General Hospital.
  • Lisa Hartman Black
    Knots Landing, Tabitha, 2000 Malibu Road
    Lisa Hartman Black (born June 1, 1956) is an American actress and singer.
  • James Houghton (born November 7, 1948) is an American actor and writer. He is best known for playing the role of Kenny Ward in the first four seasons of CBS prime time soap opera Knots Landing (1979–1983).
  • John Pleshette
    Doctors' Hospital
    John Pleshette (born July 27, 1942) is an American actor and screenwriter, best known for his role as Richard Avery on the television drama Knots Landing, and for portraying Lee Harvey Oswald in the TV movie The Trial of Lee Harvey Oswald. Pleshette also wrote several scripts for Knots Landing in the 1980s.
  • Kim Lankford
    The Waverly Wonders
    Kim Lankford (born June 14, 1954) is an American businesswoman and retired actress, best known for her role as Ginger Ward on Knots Landing from 1979 to 1983.
  • Marcia Cross
    Desperate Housewives, Melrose Place, One Life to Live
    Marcia Cross is widely recognized for her riveting roles on television. Born on March 25, 1962, in Marlborough, Massachusetts, she discovered her passion for acting at a young age and pursued it relentlessly, earning a Master's degree in Acting from the prestigious Juilliard School. With a career spanning over three decades, Cross's exceptional talent and hard work have earned her multiple award nominations, further cementing her legacy as one of the most impactful actresses of her generation. Cross first grabbed the limelight with her performance in the soap opera One Life to Live, where she played Kate Sanders from 1986 to 1987. However, it was the role of Bree Van de Kamp, the perfectionist housewife on the hit show Desperate Housewives, that propelled her into the realm of stardom. Her nuanced portrayal of this complex character garnered critical acclaim and won her an Emmy nomination, among other accolades. Meanwhile, her stint as Dr. Kimberly Shaw on Melrose Place also remains one of her most iconic roles, demonstrating her versatility as an actress. Away from the camera, Cross has been a fierce advocate for various charitable causes. She has been particularly vocal about raising awareness for skin cancer, following her own diagnosis in 2019. Despite facing personal challenges, she has remained resilient, using her platform to educate and inspire others. Marcia Cross's life and career serve as a testament to her inherent talent, tenacity, and commitment to making a difference both on and off the screen.
  • Sam Behrens
    Ryan's Hope, Sunset Beach
    Sam Behrens (born July 24, 1950) is an American television actor, best known for his roles as Jake Meyer on the ABC daytime soap opera General Hospital, Danny Waleska in the CBS prime time soap opera Knots Landing and as Gregory Richards in the NBC daytime soap opera, Sunset Beach. He is of German ancestry on his paternal side.