In the 1970s, Susan Dey became a household name thanks to her role as Laurie Partridge on The Partridge Family. Her wholesome image and natural charisma made her one of television’s most beloved young stars. But while fans watched her rise to fame, few knew the private struggles she faced behind the scenes.
It has now been over two decades since Susan Dey appeared on screen. Her disappearance from the spotlight has left many wondering why such a talented actress walked away from Hollywood—and whether she might ever return.
Susan Dey Chose Privacy Over Fame
Growing up in the public eye brought challenges that deeply affected Dey. She once described the pressure of early fame as feeling like “an adult but you are not an adult,” in an interview with The Washington Post. During her time on The Partridge Family, Dey developed an eating disorder—a consequence of the intense scrutiny and expectations placed on young stars.
After the show ended in 1974, Dey struggled with being typecast. Yet she fought to redefine her career, landing a lead role in the 1978 miniseries Little Women and later starring in L.A. Law. Her role as Grace Van Owen earned her a Golden Globe and multiple Emmy nominations, cementing her status as a serious dramatic actress.
A Quiet Life Away From Hollywood
Despite her success, Susan Dey gradually withdrew from the industry. Her final acting credit came in 2004 with a brief appearance on Third Watch. Reports suggest that personal boundary violations, including public revelations from former co-star David Cassidy and invasive tabloid coverage, deeply affected her. As she told Parade, “I usually don’t talk about it because I feel it’s my business and nobody else’s.”
Now in her early seventies, Dey lives a quiet life with her husband, producer Bernard Sofronski. Though she misses acting, she has made peace with her decision. In 2013, she shared that her life feels “so full” and that she’s content staying out of the spotlight.