The question of whether Linda Gray is still alive and her current age is a top search query for fans worldwide, a testament to her enduring legacy as one of television’s most iconic, and often misunderstood, characters: Sue Ellen Ewing. As of late 2025, the legendary actress, director, and former model is not only alive and well, but she continues to be an active and influential figure in the entertainment industry and in global philanthropy.

The star, forever synonymous with the high-stakes drama of the original *Dallas* series, is currently 85 years old, having celebrated her birthday on September 12, 1940. This article dives into her complete biography, her recent professional endeavors, and the incredible impact she has had both on and off the screen, proving that the spirit of a true Hollywood icon never fades.

Linda Gray: Complete Biography and Profile

Linda Ann Gray is an American actress, director, producer, and former model whose career has spanned over six decades, cementing her status as a global television icon. Her most celebrated role remains that of Sue Ellen Ewing, the long-suffering, yet resilient, wife of the oil magnate J.R. Ewing, played by the late Larry Hagman, on the CBS soap opera *Dallas*.

• Full Name: Linda Ann Gray
• Date of Birth: September 12, 1940
• Current Age (as of December 2025): 85 years old
• Place of Birth: Santa Monica, California, U.S.
• Occupations: Actress, Director, Producer, Former Model
• Years Active: 1963–Present
• Spouse: Ed Thrasher (m. 1962; div. 1983)
• Children: Jeff Thrasher (deceased) and Kehly Sloane
• Key Role: Sue Ellen Ewing in *Dallas* (1978–1989, 1991, 2012–2014)
• Awards/Recognition: Golden Globe Award nomination, two Soap Opera Digest Awards, Bambi Award, Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations (2000s)

Gray began her career in the 1960s as a model, famously appearing uncredited as the leg double for Anne Bancroft on the poster for the 1967 film *The Graduate*. Her transition to acting saw her appear in numerous television series throughout the 1970s before landing the career-defining role of Sue Ellen Ewing in 1978, a character that earned her international fame and critical acclaim, including a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress.

The Enduring Legacy of Sue Ellen Ewing and Dallas

The character of Sue Ellen Ewing is arguably Linda Gray's most significant contribution to pop culture. Portraying the former beauty queen turned alcoholic, neglected wife in the fictional Southfork Ranch, Gray captured the complexities of a woman trapped in a gilded cage.

The immense popularity of *Dallas*, which ran from 1978 to 1991, turned Gray into a household name. Her on-screen relationship with Larry Hagman’s J.R. Ewing became one of television's most compelling and tumultuous dynamics, defining the prime-time soap opera genre. The show's success was global, earning her a Bambi Award for Best TV Series International in 1982.

Many television historians and critics credit Sue Ellen as one of the first "real housewives" on television, laying the groundwork for complex female characters who struggled with marriage, identity, and addiction on a massive scale. Gray reprised her role in the 2012 TNT continuation of *Dallas*, proving the character’s timeless appeal and the enduring loyalty of the fanbase.

Beyond *Dallas*, Gray’s versatility is evident in her other work. She appeared opposite Sylvester Stallone in the 1991 film *Oscar* and played a leading role in the Fox drama series *Models Inc.* from 1994 to 1995, further demonstrating her ability to tackle different genres and roles post-Ewing.

Linda Gray’s Current Life and Projects in 2025

Despite being in her mid-80s, Linda Gray remains highly active, both professionally and philanthropically, ensuring her status as a relevant figure in the current entertainment landscape. Her recent activities focus on production, advocacy, and reconnecting with her roots.

Executive Producer and Return to the Screen

A significant piece of recent news is Linda Gray's move into an executive production role. She has signed on as an executive producer for a proposed holiday-themed television movie. This new venture highlights her continued influence behind the camera, a role she has embraced since directing several episodes of the original *Dallas*.

In addition to this production work, she has also had recent on-screen appearances. In late 2023, she starred in the holiday movie *Ladies of the '80s: A Divas Christmas*, alongside other iconic actresses from the decade, proving her continued draw for nostalgia-driven projects.

Philanthropic Work and Public Appearances

Gray has long been dedicated to humanitarian causes. In the 2000s, she served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations focusing on health and aging issues, a role that reflects her commitment to global welfare.

Currently, she is actively working with the Farrah Fawcett Foundation, which is dedicated to cancer research and patient assistance. Her close relationship with the late Farrah Fawcett is a driving force behind this commitment, keeping her engaged in vital charitable work.

Furthermore, Gray continues to make public appearances, often tied to her *Dallas* fame. She has participated in events like the Bolo Bash, and there has been recent buzz about her returning to the iconic Southfork Ranch for new projects or fan events, keeping the connection to her most famous role vibrant for a new generation of fans.

The Secrets to Longevity and a Continued Career

Linda Gray's ability to maintain a successful career and a vibrant public life into her mid-80s is a source of inspiration. Her longevity in Hollywood can be attributed to several factors:

• Adaptability: She successfully transitioned from modeling to acting, and then to directing and producing, showing a willingness to evolve with the industry.
• Iconic Role: The enduring power of Sue Ellen Ewing ensures she remains relevant, with her name often linked to discussions about classic television and female archetypes.
• Commitment to Health: Gray has often spoken about her commitment to a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a positive mental attitude, which contributes to her youthful appearance and energy.

In conclusion, the answer to "Is Linda Gray still alive and how old is she?" is a resounding yes: she is a thriving 85-year-old icon. Her work in 2025, from executive producing to her ongoing philanthropic efforts with the Farrah Fawcett Foundation, ensures that the legacy of Linda Gray is far more expansive than just the glamorous, troubled Sue Ellen Ewing of Southfork. She remains a powerful figure in Hollywood, continuing to inspire fans worldwide.