Cheryl Ladd Opens Up About Her Legendary Career, Challenges, And Life Lessons

Let’s take a trip down memory lane. It’s hard to believe that Cheryl Ladd, the iconic star of Charlie’s Angels, once hesitated about joining the show in 1977. "I was replacing Farrah Fawcett, who was the biggest star on the planet," Cheryl exclusively tells Closer. "I thought, ‘How can anyone do that?’” But sometimes, life has a way of nudging you in the right direction. Thanks to the persistence of producer Aaron Spelling, Cheryl eventually said yes. She made her debut as the unforgettable Kris Munroe in the second season. "The most rewarding thing was that it was a big success," Cheryl, now 70, reflects. "The second season of the show actually had higher ratings than the first. I was so relieved!"

After wrapping up her unforgettable run on Charlie’s Angels, Cheryl — who originally came to California from South Dakota to pursue a career in singing — went on to become a mainstay in both television and film. Her latest role in A Cowgirl’s Song showcases her versatility as an actress. "I play a country and western singer who's sort of retired because she lost her husband," Cheryl explains. "She faces some challenges, and then she has to get back up on the horse and do a concert. Filming it was a joyful experience all the way around." It’s clear that Cheryl still loves what she does, and her passion shines through in everything she takes on.

Keep scrolling below for Cheryl Ladd’s exclusive Q&A interview with Closer!

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Secrets of Success: Cheryl Ladd on Staying Relevant in Hollywood

Many actresses say they have trouble finding roles after age 30, but you are always working. What’s your secret?

Cheryl credits her longevity in Hollywood to the timeless appeal of Charlie’s Angels. "I’m one of those people who still have a name because of Charlie’s Angels — the show is always airing somewhere on the planet!" she says. "So, I get some nice opportunities, although I am picky. Every now and then, I find something I really love, like A Cowgirl’s Song." It’s clear that Cheryl doesn’t just take any role; she chooses projects that resonate with her and allow her to grow as an artist.

What’s special about A Cowgirl’s Song?

For Cheryl, the appeal lies in the film's heartwarming message. "It’s a family movie filled with music and entertainment," she explains. "I feel like that’s something we could all use right now after everything we’ve been through with COVID. It’s a reminder about the importance of family." In a world that often feels chaotic, Cheryl’s work offers a comforting escape, reminding audiences of the simple joys in life.

From Hayley Mills to Katharine Hepburn: Cheryl’s Inspirations Growing Up

A lot of little girls grew up idolizing you on Charlie’s Angels. Did you have any idols growing up?

Cheryl’s childhood was filled with admiration for some of Hollywood’s greatest stars. "When I was very young, Hayley Mills was my hero," she recalls. "I had an English accent one entire summer because I loved Hayley Mills so much! As I matured, Katharine Hepburn became one of my favorite actresses. And I liked Susan Hayward. She always had an edge. And, of course, Grace Kelly, who I got to play in The Grace Kelly Story — a project my husband produced." Cheryl’s journey through Hollywood has been shaped by the legends who came before her, and she carries that legacy with grace and humility.

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Do you stay in touch with any of your Charlie’s Angels costars?

Cheryl shares a special bond with her former co-star Jaclyn Smith. "Jaclyn and I talk all the time," she says. "She’s a doll. Just a great girl and so much fun. You know, for as elegant as she is, she’s also kooky and a goofball. We’d love to find the right project to work together on. Maybe a movie about two old friends and all the ups-and-downs of that relationship — how you help each other out in good times and bad." It’s clear that the bond formed on set has stood the test of time.

Remembering Tanya Roberts: A Tribute to a Beloved Co-Star

We were all saddened by the death of Charlie’s Angels’ Tanya Roberts last year. What was she like?

Tanya Roberts was a force to be reckoned with. "It was a real shock," Cheryl says. "Tanya’s hard to describe, but she was a lot of fun. She spoke like a truck driver. She just made Jaclyn and I laugh so hard. She was outrageous and lovable." Cheryl’s memories of Tanya are filled with laughter and warmth, a testament to the impact Tanya had on those around her.

Favorite Costars and Memorable Moments

Who have been some of your other all-time favorite costars?

When it comes to costars, Cheryl has had the privilege of working with some of Hollywood’s biggest names. "One of my very favorites was Michael Caine," she says. "He’s one of the funniest human beings that God ever made. Oh my gosh. He could make me wet my pants laughing, which was unkind of him because we were doing Jekyll & Hyde and I was in a bustle and all these clothes. I said, ‘Stop talking, Michael, stop. Don’t tell me one more joke. I can’t, I can’t take it.’ He was absolutely delightful and hilarious." It’s clear that Cheryl treasures these moments and the friendships they’ve brought her.

Challenges, Priorities, and Life Lessons

What have been some of your biggest challenges?

Cheryl’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary, but it hasn’t come without its challenges. "In my career, it was doing four years of Charlie’s Angels with 28 episodes a season," she recalls. "Then on my hiatus, supposedly my rest time, I was doing movies of the week and variety shows. I had a 2-year-old daughter, and I was spinning like a clock. I missed so many times with my daughter. That’s why I didn’t do another series for a very long time after Charlie’s Angels, because I really wanted to be with my daughter, Jordan." Cheryl’s dedication to her family is evident, and it’s a priority she continues to uphold.

Are you and Jordan still close?

Cheryl’s relationship with her daughter is one of her greatest joys. "We are crazy about each other!" she says. "It’s just so lovely to be this age and have an adult daughter. She’ll always be my baby, but she’s also one of my very best friends. My other daughter is Lindsay. I’ve been her stepmom, or ‘bonus mom,’ as she calls me, since she was 4." Cheryl’s love for her daughters is a testament to her strength as both a mother and a woman.

Did you worry when Jordan decided to follow in your acting footsteps?

Cheryl’s confidence in her daughter’s abilities is unwavering. "No. She had a clearer awareness and understanding of the business than I did when I left South Dakota and got to California," she says. "She’s also a wonderful actress. I wasn’t surprised