The title Charlie's Angels was derived by Kate Jackson from a picture of three angels hanging on the wall of producer Aaron Spelling’s office in 1975. This creative input marked the beginning of a television series that defined her status as a central figure in American popular culture during the late twentieth century.
Early Career and Television Breakthroughs
Born in 1948 in Birmingham, Alabama, Jackson pursued her education at institutions including Shades Valley High School, the Altamont School, the University of Mississippi, Birmingham–Southern College, and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. After a period working as an NBC page at Rockefeller Center, she secured roles in the daytime soap opera Dark Shadows and the 1971 feature film Night of Dark Shadows. Between 1972 and 1976, she appeared as nurse Jill Danko in the crime drama The Rookies, during which time she also gained experience in directing and editing.
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Initially considered for the role of Kelly Garrett, Jackson chose the character of Sabrina Duncan for the pilot film, which premiered on March 21, 1976. The series launched in September of that year. The show's influence led to her appearance on the cover of Time magazine alongside co-stars Jaclyn Smith and Farrah Fawcett-Majors. She departed the series at the end of its third season, citing a desire to move on after her sustained contribution to the production.
Transition to Producing and Health Challenges
In 1983, Jackson began a starring role as Amanda King in the action drama Scarecrow and Mrs. King, which she co-produced through her own company, Shoot the Moon Enterprises. During the final season of the show in 1987, she received a diagnosis of breast cancer and underwent a lumpectomy while continuing production with radiation therapy. Following a second diagnosis in 1989, she underwent a partial mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. In 1995, doctors discovered an atrial septal defect, a condition she had possessed since birth.
Selected Filmography
Beyond her television tenure, Jackson appeared in theatrical features including the 1972 independent film Limbo, which addressed the Vietnam War, and the 1982 drama Making Love. Her work in the latter film involved themes concerning homosexuality. Later, she starred in the 1989 film Loverboy. Throughout the 1990s and into the 2000s, she continued to work in television films such as Quiet Killer, Empty Cradle, and the 2000 remake of Satan's School for Girls.
Fast facts
- Born: 1948, Birmingham, Alabama
- Education: University of Mississippi, Birmingham–Southern College, American Academy of Dramatic Arts
- Television debut: Dark Shadows
- Charlie's Angels role: Sabrina Duncan
- Scarecrow and Mrs. King role: Amanda King
- Production company: Shoot the Moon Enterprises
- Awards: Photoplay award for Favorite TV Actress (1978), Bravo Golden Otto Award (1986–1988)
Questions readers ask
What was the inspiration behind the title Charlie's Angels?
Kate Jackson suggested the name to producer Aaron Spelling after seeing a picture of three female angels on his office wall.
Did Jackson produce any of her own television projects?
Yes, she co-produced the series Scarecrow and Mrs. King through her company, Shoot the Moon Enterprises.
Achievements
- Educated at American Academy of Dramatic Arts and University of Mississippi
- Worked as actor, model and television actor
