Charlene Tilton is a celebrated American actress and singer, best known for her iconic role as Lucy Ewing on the CBS prime time soap opera Dallas. Her career began with early appearances on popular television series such as Happy Days and Eight Is Enough, showcasing her talent and versatility. Tilton made her film debut alongside Jodie Foster in the 1976 classic Freaky Friday, marking the start of a dynamic career in the entertainment industry.
Tilton’s breakthrough came in 1978 when she was cast as Lucy Ewing in Dallas, a role that would define her career. Portraying the sly and spirited granddaughter of the Ewing family, she captivated audiences and became a household name. During her time on the show, she earned a remarkable salary of $50,000 per episode and was featured on over 500 magazine covers, solidifying her status as a television icon. Her character’s wedding episode drew an astonishing 65 million viewers, a testament to her popularity.
In addition to her acting prowess, Tilton is also a talented singer. She showcased her vocal abilities in a 1978 episode of Dallas and released the hit dance-pop single “C’est la Vie” in 1984, which gained traction in Europe. Her appearances on various game shows and reality television further demonstrated her versatility and charm, making her a beloved figure in the entertainment world.
After Dallas, Tilton continued to thrive in her career, appearing in films such as Border Shootout and Problem Child 2, as well as guest-starring on numerous television shows. She returned to her roots in the 2012 Dallas revival, reprising her beloved role and delighting fans. With a career spanning decades, Charlene Tilton remains a vibrant and influential presence in the entertainment industry.