Designing Women's Cast: Then and Now

Between 1986 and 1993, a global audience was captivated by the daily lives of four self-reliant Southern women employed at the esteemed interior design company, Sugarbaker and Associates. This uproarious CBS sitcom successfully highlighted the strength and humor of its female protagonists. Nearly 30 years have passed since the show's conclusion, yet it continues to resonate in the realm of television, leaving countless fans pondering a significant inquiry: What has become of these beloved characters in the present day?

Annie Potts as Mary Jo

Annie Potts, known for her role as Mary Jo Shively, the lead designer in the show, was undeniably on the path to success. Being the central figure in such a prominent cast, she captivated audiences as her character navigated life after divorce. Her gradual reconstruction of a new life resonated with viewers and gained their adoration. Potts emerged as a prominent figure in the film industry during the '80s, earning a Golden Globe nomination for Corvette Summer (1978) and winning a Genie Award for Heartaches (1981). Additionally, she starred in several blockbuster hits, including Ghostbusters, Pretty in Pink, Jumpin' Jack Flash, and Who's Harry Crumb?

Annie Potts at Present

Annie Potts had a thriving career in the '80s, but her success dwindled in later years. Despite sporadic appearances, she eventually landed the lead role in the popular 90s show, Love & War, which turned her luck around. Thankfully, Potts made a comeback on the small screen in the beloved spinoff show of Big Bang Theory, called Young Sheldon. In this heartwarming series, she portrays Connie "Meemaw" Tucker, earning the admiration of viewers once again.

Jean Smart stars as Charlene Frazier-Stillfield.

Jean Smart flawlessly embodied the character of Charlene Frazier-Stillfield, a frequently overwhelmed small-town girl and secretary at Sugarbaker Associates. With her comedic timing, Smart humorously portrayed Charlene as she navigated the hectic world of corporate life. Despite her unconventional coping mechanisms, such as seeking guidance from a psychic, Charlene became a beloved character among fans. Smart's portrayal of Charlene became so iconic that it was difficult to imagine her in any other role. However, times have changed, and Smart has since proven her versatility as an actress.

Jean Smart's Current Status

Film and television sets often foster tense relationships, whether through heated arguments or passionate love affairs. Fortunately for the actress, she experienced the latter. Smart fell in love with her co-star Richard Gilliland, and the two remained married until Gilliland's passing in 2021. Alongside her fortunate love life, Smart has maintained a busy career in the industry. She has taken on various roles in popular shows like The District, 24, Frasier, Arrested Development, and Dirty John, to name just a few. In 2021, she received an Emmy award for her exceptional performance in HBO's series Hacks.

Richard Gilliland plays J.D. Shackleford.

Mary Jo's first love interest, J.D Shackleford, was a scout for the Atlantic Braves who captivated her attention. However, it was the charming Richard Gilliand who caught the eyes of the female viewers. Suzanne played matchmaker and arranged a romantic date for the two. While sparks initially flew, their relationship gradually unveiled their individual burdens. Ultimately, their love fizzled out, leading them to go their separate ways.

Richard Gilliland's Current Status

Although Mary Jo and J.D's relationship didn't result in a fairy tale ending, J.D found love with another person, namely Jean Smart. Richard Gilliland, known for his appearances in various television shows such as Desperate Housewives, CSI, and the dark comedy series Imposters, had a deep affection for Smart right from the start. Unfortunately, in 2021, Gilliland passed away at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy of his silver screen contributions.

Douglas Barr Portrays Bill Stillfield

Although the show primarily centered around the female characters' professional lives, it is important to note that they were not devoid of emotions. An attractive love interest entered the scene and captured the affection of one of our beloved ladies. Colonel William "Bill" Stillfield, portrayed by the talented Douglas Barr, effortlessly charmed everyone, particularly the endearing Charlene. Although Stillfield initially had a connection with Julia Sugarbaker, their storylines did not align as well as his did with Charlene, ultimately leading to their marriage.

Douglas Barr's Present Status

Barr gained attention prior to his role in Designing Women as the character Harry Munson on the popular show The Fall Guy. This performance in the 80s was highly regarded, which led to his significant role in the CBS sitcom. After leaving the show in 1991, it seemed that Barr had a promising future in television. However, his last appearance was in the 1994 film Temptation, indicating that his career in that field did not go as planned. Nevertheless, in 2017, the actor took on the role of director for the film Site Unseen: An Emma Fielding Mystery, showcasing his talent in a different aspect of the industry.

Alice Ghostley Portrays Bernice

Alice Ghostly, renowned for her portrayal of the eccentric Bernice, stood out among the cast as one of the longest-lasting actresses. Perky, the mother of Suzanne and Julia, introduced Bernice to the series, captivating audiences with her peculiar sense of humor. Although her idiosyncratic nature occasionally posed challenges in the workplace, Bernice's endearing qualities made her a cherished maternal figure on the show.

Remembering Alice Ghostley

Alice Ghostly, a renowned actress, enjoyed a successful career spanning several decades, leaving an indelible mark on American television since the 1950s. However, her portrayal in Designing Women and Evening Shade undoubtedly stood out as her most iconic roles. Notably, in Designing Women, she captivated audiences with her portrayal of Irna Wallingford for a significant period. Tragically, in 2007, Ghostly passed away, leaving behind a legacy that included her recent appearance in the TV show Mothers and Daughters, which aired just a year prior to her untimely demise.

Hal Holbrook Portrays Reese Watson

In most cases, we are attracted to individuals who are different from us. However, there are exceptions to this rule, as exemplified by the characters Julia Sugarbaker and Reese Watson portrayed by Hal Holbrooke. Despite their similarities as widowed individuals, they were a perfect match for each other. Their personalities complemented one another, with one providing a calming presence when the other became overly agitated. Although we are aware of Reese's fate, the question remains: what happened to Hal's character?

Hal Holbrook's Current Status

Hal Holbrooke had a highly successful career, regardless of his involvement in Designing Women. He portrayed iconic political and historical figures such as John Adams and Abraham Lincoln, as his appearance suited such roles. In terms of his personal life, Holbrook married his co-star Dixie Carter, and their bond was unbreakable. In his later years, he also appeared in popular shows like Sons of Anarchy. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2021, but his great-nephew Boyd Holbrook has followed in his footsteps, suggesting a talent for acting runs in the family.

Julia Duffy's Role: Allison

Julia Duffy's flawless portrayal of Allison, the main antagonist in the show, played a crucial role in bringing the character's cunning nature to life. Allison's complete disregard for the company infuriated everyone, yet she remained unfazed by their anger. In her grand scheme, if everything else faltered, Allison intended to secure her portion of the business, bid farewell to Atlanta, and establish a new branch of Victoria's Secret. Duffy's exceptional acting skills truly captured the essence of this captivating character.

Julia Duffy's Current Status

After the conclusion of Designing Women, Julia Duffy earned a stellar reputation. She swiftly secured a role in the television series The Mommies, where she remained for a significant portion of the 1990s. This solidified her status as an accomplished actress. Furthermore, her career shows no signs of slowing down as she has since made appearances in various popular shows like Shameless and American Housewife.

Jan Hooks is Carlene.

Carlene, the sister of Charlene in the show, was a delightful character. Jan Hooks, a highly skilled actress, portrayed Carlene during the final seasons of the series. Carlene took over the role after her sister relocated to England. Although she may not have possessed the same wit as Charlene, Carlene was undeniably kind-hearted. Additionally, she harbored a genuine enthusiasm for the music industry.

Jan Hooks Now

During her career, Hooks accumulated a considerable number of comedic roles, including her stint as a cast member on Saturday Night Live during the 1980s. In addition to that, she appeared in several other comedy productions such as PeeWee's Big Adventure and 3rd Rock From the Sun in the late 1990s. Hooks also lent her voice to numerous animated shows, including a role on The Simpsons. Sadly, the actress succumbed to cancer in 2014, marking a tragic end to her life and career.

Scott Bakula portrays Dr. Ted Shively

Scott Bakula was an essential figure in 80s and 90s sitcoms, with shows like Quantum Leap and Murphy Brown relying heavily on his talent. In Designing Women, Bakula took on the role of Ted Shively, the ex-husband of Mary Jo. He convincingly portrayed a cunning womanizer who struggled to maintain a stable marriage. The dynamic between Mary Jo and Ted seemed perplexing, making it difficult to comprehend how their relationship even began.

Scott Bakula's Present Day

In contrast to the unreliable Ted, Scott Bakula is a truly commendable individual. He has skillfully managed to achieve a harmonious equilibrium between his personal and professional life. This was evident when he secured the role of Captain Jonathan Archer in Star Trek: Enterprise, as he insisted on a clause in his contract that allowed him to depart every filming day promptly at 6 pm. This decision was driven by his strong desire to share dinner with his family each evening, a commitment he upheld while working on NCIS: New Orleans as well. It is evident that prioritizing his family remains of utmost importance to him. Well done, Mr. Bakula.

Judith Ivey Cast as BJ Poteen

After Delta Burke's departure in the fifth season, the talented actress Judith Ivey joined the show as her replacement, bringing her own unique charm. Despite her wealthy background, her character seamlessly blends in with her co-workers, effortlessly fitting into the dynamic. Surprisingly, she even becomes the savior of the company, preventing it from plunging into bankruptcy. This unexpected turn of events showcases her character's admirable qualities, adding an extra layer of goodness to the storyline.

Ivey's Present Day

Judith Ivey has made a name for herself not only in the realms of film and TV but also on the theatrical stage. Throughout her illustrious career, she has graced numerous Broadway productions, with a few even securing her the prestigious Tony award. Among her notable television appearances are shows like The 5 Mrs. Buchanans and Buddies. Although her presence on TV has diminished over time, viewers can still catch glimpses of Ivey in select episodes of the recently premiered series, The Accidental Wolf.

Gerald McRaney portrays Dash Goff.

TV writers frequently find themselves responsible for creating relationships between their characters. However, on occasion, they unintentionally become matchmakers for the actors behind the roles. Such was the situation for Gerald McRaney, who developed genuine feelings for his co-star Delta Burke. In the show, McRaney portrayed Dash Goff, the ex-husband and writer of Suzanne.

Gerald McRaney's Present Day

Gerald McRaney has developed a notable reputation for portraying antagonistic characters, which is quite intriguing. Alongside his role in Designing Women, he simultaneously embraced another antagonistic character in the show Simon & Simon. Since his breakthrough in the 70s, the actor has continuously thrived in the entertainment industry, consistently securing roles in both film and television. Presently, he is actively involved in two immensely popular shows, namely House of Cards on Netflix and This Is Us. McRaney's remarkable career trajectory showcases his versatility and enduring success in the realm of acting.

Sheryl Lee Ralph as Bouvier

Sheryl Lee Ralph, a Tony Award winner, portrayed the remarkable character Etienne Toussant Bouvier. Her outstanding performance in the Broadway production of Dreamgirls had captivated numerous audiences, propelling her into a prosperous television career. Demonstrating her determination and commitment, Etienne conveyed to television executives her readiness to achieve success and provide for her family. Fortunately, she was selected to be part of the cast.

Sheryl Lee Ralph's Present Day

Known for her busy schedule, this multi-talented actress effortlessly intertwines her love for music with her acting career, as evident in her appearance on the popular show "Smash," which revolves around Broadway. Sharing the screen with the equally talented Jennifer Hudson, the duo's chemistry is undeniable. Notably, Ralph has been making appearances in various shows such as "Claws," "MacGyver," "The Quad," and "Ray Donovan." Keeping up with her pattern, she can also be seen in the upcoming musical film "Revival!"

Olivia Brown portrays Vanessa Hargraves

Olivia Brown's character, Vanessa Hargraves, proved to be Anthony's most formidable opponent on the show. Despite their frequent interactions, they were not the only duo in the spotlight. Vanessa also formed a close bond with Suzanne Sugarbaker, as she believed it would help her advance in her career. Regrettably, Vanessa bid farewell to the series at the conclusion of the fourth season, marking her permanent departure from the show.

Olivia Brown's Present Day

Olivia Brown, known for her role as Trudy Joplin in the iconic '80s crime drama Miami Vice, gained recognition that ultimately led to her casting in Designing Women. Following her successful stint on the CBS sitcom, she made appearances in several other shows, including 7th Heaven. However, the actress chose to take a break from the television industry to focus on her family life. Her most recent appearance was in the 2017 film Our Dream Christmas.

Brian Lando and Quinton Shively

Quinton Shively, portrayed by actor Brian Lando, was the youngest cast member at a mere nine years old. As Mary Jo's adorable and endearing son, Quinton had a knack for finding trouble. This mischievous and determined child frequently engaged in playful escapades, prompting Anthony to step in as a supportive male figure. Despite his penchant for mischief, Quinton's lovable nature endeared him to the audience, making him a cherished character on the show.

Lando's Day

Frequently, child stars lose their shine once they reach adulthood. However, Brian Lando defies this trend. Despite taking a significant hiatus from Hollywood to lead a "normal life," he made an unexpected return. Despite initial doubts about the entertainment industry, he resurfaced as a producer. Currently, he enjoys a thriving career, overseeing the production of numerous successful TV shows.

Dolly Parton Being Herself

After achieving considerable success, the creators of the show had a particular individual in their sights - the renowned country singer, Dolly Parton. Being an ardent fan of the show herself, Dolly's excitement knew no bounds when she received the invitation. And so, on the eve of New Year's, Dolly became a part of the team as a special guest, making a memorable appearance in Charlene's dream. During this intriguing encounter, she dropped a subtle hint about an upcoming development - Charlene's forthcoming journey into motherhood.

Dolly Parton's Present Day

Dolly remains an iconic figure in the country music scene, having achieved unparalleled fame. Over the course of her illustrious five-decade career, she has graced numerous stages, starred in films and television shows, and served as a mentor to aspiring artists. Remarkably, amidst her remarkable achievements, she has managed to maintain her privacy and uphold a strong personal life. Notably, she recently reaffirmed her commitment to her husband of many years, Carl Dean, with whom she has shared a loving bond since 1964.

Ray McKinnon as Dwayne Dobber

Ray McKinnon joined the cast as Dwayne, Carlene's former spouse, in a later season. Dwayne exuded an unmistakable aura of deceit and trouble. It didn't take long for viewers to comprehend why Carlene chose to part ways with him. McKinnon skillfully embodied the character of a slimy car salesman, effectively fueling fans' disdain towards Dwayne. Without a doubt, Carlene made a fortunate escape by leaving him behind.

Ray McKinnon's Present Day

Ray McKinnon has built an extensive portfolio in television and film, with notable appearances in Sons of Anarchy and Deadwood. His character 'Dwayne' has become familiar to numerous viewers. As the years pass, McKinnon's showreel continues to grow more impressive. Alongside his commendable television work, he has also showcased his acting skills in movies like Mud and The Last Ride. Additionally, McKinnon has even ventured into directing on occasion.

Patrick Warburton as Craig Coleman

Patrick Warburton, the epitome of a ladies' man in the 1980s, was a natural choice for the role of Craig Coleman, a significant love interest for Mary Jo. However, his limited intellect, a common issue among attractive men, ultimately led to their relationship's demise. Despite its brevity, their passionate affair was undeniably scorching.

Patrick Warburton Now

Fortunately, Warburton experienced a significant career boost after his appearance on the immensely popular show, Seinfeld. This move had a transformative effect on his professional trajectory, leading him to secure numerous roles throughout the years. His portrayal of David Puddy on Seinfeld showcased his exceptional comedic talent, while his deep and soothing voice helped him establish a notable presence in the voice over and animation industry. His most recent work can be witnessed in the widely acclaimed sitcom, Rules of Engagement.

Tony Goldwyn Cast as Kendall Dobbs

Kendall Dobbs, a character in this show, made a lasting impression despite appearing in just one episode. Portraying a man afflicted with AIDS during the peak of the epidemic in the '80s, his presence was both powerful and controversial. Dobbs approached the firm with an unusual request: designing his own funeral. However, Goldwyn skillfully brought depth to the character, allowing viewers to connect with him on a personal level. Ultimately, this episode left a profound impact, leaving audiences in awe and admiration.

Tony Goldwyn in the Present

Goldwyn's career skyrocketed after the show, particularly in the '90s, and he has since delivered a series of remarkable performances. Boasting an impressive repertoire including acclaimed films like The Pelican Brief, The Last Samurai, and Ghost, this actor has undeniably enjoyed a prosperous and distinguished career. With his current roles in Scandal and Chambers, Goldwyn continues to showcase his talent and exhibits no indication of slowing down.

Gregg Henry Portrays Jack Dent

Gregg Henry's addition to the cast of the show as Suzanne's ex-husband, Jack Dent, was anticipated to bring something extraordinary to the already exceptional ensemble. Surprisingly, his presence was short-lived due to the lack of compatibility between their characters, despite the undeniable chemistry they shared. Nonetheless, Gregg Henry succeeded in creating a truly unforgettable character. Fans will forever recall his character's transition from being a pitcher in the MLB team to joining the Atlanta Braves, leaving a lasting impression.

Gregg Henry's Present Day

Gregg Henry may not have been well-liked in his role on Designing Women, but he gained recognition for his portrayal of the astute media mogul, Mitchum Huntsberger, on Gilmore Girls. Additionally, he has appeared in other notable television series such as Eyes and The Riches. Interestingly, he is yet another former castmate who secured a role on the popular show Scandal, further highlighting the interconnectedness of the entertainment industry.

Meshach Taylor Portrays Anthony Bouvier

Meshach Taylor's portrayal of Anthony Bouvier on the popular Southern set sitcom made him undeniably the most endearing character. Initially, Anthony was merely a trusted friend and delivery man for the girls. However, as the show progressed, he seamlessly integrated into the Designing Women family. Over the course of the seasons, Anthony's character arc underwent significant development, culminating in a surprising twist when he became a partner in the company.

Meshach Taylor: Remembering the Actor

In addition to the unforgettable Anthony Bouvier, Taylor continued to thrive in the television industry. In the '90s sitcom Dave's World, audiences witnessed Taylor's portrayal of Shel Baker. Following this, a decade later, he took on the role of Mr. Wright in the children's series Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide. Regrettably, this marked one of his last performances before his untimely passing in 2014.

Dixie Carter: Julia Sugarbaker

Although other characters in the show made significant contributions, none could rival the impact of Julia Sugarbaker. As the head of Sugarbaker and Associates, she was an indispensable part of the company's success. Julia's commanding presence and captivating personality set her apart from the rest of the cast. Throughout the entire series, she remained a constant force, shaping the essence of Sugarbaker and Associates. This exceptional portrayal could only be accomplished by the talented Dixie Carter.

Dixie Carter: A Leading Figure

Undoubtedly, Carter is an exceptional actress, but her journey to fame began as a classical singer before transitioning to the screen in the 1970s. The pivotal moment in her career arrived when she made her mark on Diff'rent Strokes. Subsequently, she received an influx of offers, although there was a brief period of decreased opportunities following Designing Women. However, her career regained momentum when she secured a role in Family Law. Tragically, her final performance was in That Evening Sun in 2009, and her passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt.

George Newbern is Payne McIlroy.

Payne McIlroy had the privilege of having an admirable mother as his role model. Although he shared several similarities with her, he remained his unique self and opted for his own distinctive approach in various aspects of life. The charming George Newbern portrayed this character flawlessly, with a face that was impossible to be angry at. Eventually, Payne decided to relocate to New York to forge his own path in his chosen profession, yet he never hesitated to seek guidance from his mother when needed.

George Newbern now

Newbern gained significant fame for his portrayal in Designing Women, which propelled his career as he went on to feature in popular family films of the 90s such as Father of the Bride and Adventures in Babysitting. After achieving success in the film industry, he made a return to television with a role in the medical drama series Chicago of Hope. More recently, he has been prominently featured in the hit show Scandal.

Delta Burke as Suzanne

Designing Women had its own wild card character in the form of Suzanne Sugarbaker, portrayed brilliantly by the fabulous Delta Burke. Suzanne, as Julia's younger and more carefree sister, added an abundance of excitement to the show. Her mischievous escapades with Anthony were a highlight of her character's contribution. However, as the series progressed, Suzanne's presence on screen diminished, and by the end of season 5, she bid farewell to the show.

Current status of Delta Burke

The decreasing presence of Burke over time was not entirely mysterious, as there were numerous conflicts occurring behind the scenes. Regrettably, Burke experienced a major clash with a significant portion of the cast and crew. Despite a brief resurgence with a show appropriately titled Delta, the actress encountered difficulties in securing future projects. During the mid-2000s, she made appearances in a few episodes of Boston Legal. Ultimately, Burke's final role was in the film Counter Culture.

Gail O'Grady as Kiki

Gail O'Grady, an incredibly talented actress, portrayed Kiki Kearney on the show. Although she only appeared in two episodes, true fans will always remember her. At the time, Gail was also playing Donna Abandando in NYPD Blue, where she gained immense popularity. She showcased her skills in nearly 60 episodes of the show, spanning from 1993 to 1999. It was evident that Gail was destined for stardom, making her departure from the show a bittersweet moment for fans who wished to see more of her incredible talent.

Gail O'Grady's Present Status

Since 1986, Gail has maintained a thriving acting career, refusing to allow any obstacles to hinder her progress. She fearlessly embraced the silver screen, gracing notable films such as "Mothers of the Bride" in 2014 and "Deadly Draw" in 2022. Her unwavering fondness for crime-related shows remains evident, as she consistently appears as a guest star in acclaimed series like "Boston Legal," "Criminal Minds," and "Training Day." Despite experiencing six marriages in the past, Gail currently finds contentment in her blissful single life.

Adam Goldberg: Oreo Enthusiast

Fans of Designing Women may recall Oreo Man from the episode called A Class Act, and it's worth noting that this character was brought to life by none other than Adam Goldberg. This talented actor and director later gained prominence in the industry, starring in notable films such as Dazed and Confused (1993) and Saving Private Ryan (1998). Those who followed Designing Women can proudly assert that they witnessed Goldberg's abilities before he achieved widespread recognition.

Adam Goldberg's Present Status

Since 2014, the actor has been happily wedded to Roxanne Daner, a creative director. Together, they are proud parents of two boys named Sonny and Bud. Despite his commitment to family life, his passion for acting remains unwavering. With a career spanning from his notable role in Daze and Confused, he has amassed an impressive filmography, featuring over 40 movies and more than 25 TV shows. However, his talents extend beyond acting alone. In 2009, he released his debut album, Goldberg Eros and Omissions, showcasing his musical abilities. Additionally, he showcased his skills as a writer and director with the psychological thriller, I Love Your Work.