Tanya Roberts, born Victoria Leigh Blum on October 15, 1949, in the Bronx, New York City, had a background in the arts from an early age. She dropped out of high school at 15, ventured into modeling, and later pursued acting, taking classes at the prestigious Actors Studio in New York.
Breakthrough in Acting
Roberts began her acting career in off-Broadway productions and eventually landed her first notable screen role in the 1975 horror film Forced Entry.
However, her breakthrough came in 1980 when she was cast as Julie Rogers in the final season of Charlie’s Angels. Her role as a private investigator in the iconic series gained her significant attention, making her a household name and solidifying her presence in Hollywood.
Rise to Fame with The Beastmaster and Sheena
Following her success on Charlie’s Angels, Roberts starred in The Beastmaster (1982), where she portrayed Kiri, a slave girl who becomes a heroine. The fantasy adventure film became a cult classic and showcased her physicality and charm, earning her a loyal fanbase.
Shortly after, she took on the role of Sheena in Sheena: Queen of the Jungle (1984). Although the film did not fare well critically, it cemented her as a memorable figure in 1980s pop culture and showcased her as a lead actress in an action-adventure setting.
Iconic Role as a Bond Girl
In 1985, Roberts was cast as Stacey Sutton in A View to a Kill, the final James Bond film to star Roger Moore. Playing opposite Moore, she brought a unique blend of strength and vulnerability to her role as a geologist caught up in the villainous schemes of Max Zorin, played by Christopher Walken.
While the film received mixed reviews, Roberts’ performance as a Bond girl left a lasting impression and remains one of her most recognized roles.
Later Career and That ’70s Show
After her work as a Bond girl, Roberts continued to take on roles in film and television. She appeared in various films and TV shows throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, though she began to distance herself from acting for a quieter life.
In 1998, she returned to the spotlight with her role as Midge Pinciotti, the lovable but slightly ditzy mother of Donna, in That ’70s Show. Her performance resonated with audiences, introducing her to a new generation of fans and furthering her legacy in the television industry.
Personal Life and Relationships
Tanya Roberts married Barry Roberts in the early 1970s, and the couple shared a strong, enduring bond until his death in 2006. Roberts took a step back from her career to care for him during his battle with illness. Despite her high-profile roles and fame, Roberts preferred a relatively private life and was known for her kindness and down-to-earth personality.
Health Struggles and Passing
In late December 2020, Roberts was hospitalized after collapsing at her home. She passed away on January 4, 2021, due to complications from sepsis. Her sudden death was a shock to fans worldwide, sparking an outpouring of tributes from fans, colleagues, and friends who remembered her contributions to film and television.
