Peyton Place Cast: Then And Now

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Peyton Place, the groundbreaking prime-time soap opera, captivated audiences with its tales of love, scandal, and small-town secrets. But what happened to the actors who brought these iconic characters to life? Let’s take a look at the Peyton Place cast and where they are now.

The Core Characters

Peyton Place boasted a talented ensemble cast that became household names. Here are some of the most memorable characters:

  • Constance MacKenzie (Dorothy Malone): The elegant bookstore owner and protective mother. Dorothy Malone continued to work in film and television, appearing in shows like Murder, She Wrote before her passing in 2018.
  • Allison MacKenzie (Mia Farrow): The innocent daughter who comes of age amidst the town's turmoil. Mia Farrow went on to a highly successful and acclaimed acting career, starring in numerous Woody Allen films and dedicating herself to humanitarian work.
  • Rodney Harrington (Ryan O'Neal): The charming and athletic son of a wealthy mill owner. Ryan O'Neal became a major film star in the 1970s with roles in Love Story and Paper Moon. He continued to act until his passing in 2023.
  • Norman Harrington (Christopher Connelly): Rodney's sensitive and often overlooked brother. Christopher Connelly had a prolific career in television, appearing in shows like Benji, Zax & the Alien Prince. He passed away in 1988.
  • Selena Cross (Barbara Parkins): The mysterious and troubled young woman with a dark past. Barbara Parkins enjoyed a successful career in both film and television, starring in Valley of the Dolls and Dynasty.

Supporting Players Who Left Their Mark

Beyond the central figures, Peyton Place had a rich tapestry of supporting characters:

  • Dr. Michael Rossi (Ed Nelson): The town's compassionate doctor and voice of reason. Ed Nelson had a long and varied career in television and film, appearing in numerous westerns and dramas. He passed away in 2014.
  • Ann Howard (Susan Oliver): The sophisticated and worldly woman who returns to Peyton Place. Susan Oliver was an actress, director, and aviator. She appeared in many TV shows and movies. She passed away in 1990.

Where Are They Now?

While some members of the Peyton Place cast have sadly passed away, others have continued to thrive in the entertainment industry or have chosen different paths.

The impact of Peyton Place on television history is undeniable. It paved the way for future prime-time soap operas and launched the careers of many talented actors. The show remains a cultural touchstone, remembered for its compelling stories and memorable characters. Even though the show ended many years ago it still remains a cult classic.

A Lasting Legacy

Peyton Place's exploration of social issues and complex relationships broke new ground for television. Its influence can still be seen in contemporary dramas. It offered audiences a glimpse into the lives and secrets of a seemingly idyllic small town, making it a captivating and groundbreaking series.