Delta Burke is an American actress, producer, and author best known for her portrayal of Suzanne Sugarbaker on the hit sitcom Designing Women.
Born on July 30, 1956, in Orlando, Florida, Delta Ramona Leah Burke was raised by her single mother, Jean. She graduated from Colonial High School in 1974, earning the title of “Most Likely to Succeed” .
That same year, Burke made history as the youngest winner of the Miss Florida pageant, which led her to compete in the Miss America 1975 pageant. Her pageant accolades provided her with a talent scholarship to study at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, laying the foundation for her acting career.
Rise to Stardom: Designing Women and Beyond
Burke’s early television appearances included roles in series such as The Chisholms (1980) and Filthy Rich (1982–83). However, it was her role as the flamboyant and outspoken Suzanne Sugarbaker in Designing Women (1986–1991) that catapulted her to fame.
Her performance earned her two consecutive Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 1990 and 1991 .
Despite her success, Burke faced challenges on set, leading to her departure after the fifth season. She later described this period as “ugly and very sad,” acknowledging the emotional toll it took on her .
Personal Struggles and Advocacy
Throughout her career, Burke has been candid about her struggles with weight fluctuations, depression, and type-2 diabetes.
The intense media scrutiny regarding her appearance led her to extreme weight loss methods, including the use of crystal meth, which she later regretted. Reflecting on this dark period, Burke expressed gratitude for meeting her husband, actor Gerald McRaney, stating, “I love him desperately” .
Burke has also been open about her experiences with compulsive hoarding syndrome, seeking therapy to address the condition. Her transparency has contributed to broader conversations about mental health and body image in the entertainment industry.
Life with Gerald McRaney
Burke married Gerald McRaney on May 28, 1989. Their enduring relationship is marked by mutual support and understanding.
McRaney has been a steadfast advocate for Burke, especially during times of public scrutiny. He attributes the success of their marriage to marrying the right person and emphasizes the importance of fighting for the relationship during disagreements .
Later Career and Current Endeavors
After Designing Women, Burke starred in and produced several television projects, including the sitcom Delta (1992–93) and the spinoff Women of the House (1995). She made her Broadway debut in Thoroughly Modern Millie (2003) and later appeared in Steel Magnolias (2005) .
In recent years, Burke has retreated from the spotlight, choosing to focus on her health and personal life. Her husband, McRaney, explains that the relentless tabloid scrutiny played a significant role in her decision to step away from acting .
