She was a major name in the 1980s, starring in several popular films that defined the decade.
Her career began on television, where she appeared in daytime soap operas and short-lived drama series. Later on, she returned to the small screen with guest appearances in shows such as The Practice, CSI: NY, and Desperate Housewives.
One of her most memorable performances came when she played a leading role in Steve McQueen’s final film, The Hunter, released in 1980.
Recently, the retired actress was spotted during a rare outing in Los Angeles — but can you guess who she is?
It’s Kathryn Harrold.
The 75-year-old kept things casual for the low-key appearance, wearing a checked long-sleeve button-down shirt tucked into black linen trousers with sandals. Her gray hair fell naturally around her shoulders, and she opted for a makeup-free look.
Harrold is widely recognized for starring opposite McQueen in The Hunter, where he played her love interest in his final movie role. The film follows bounty hunter Ralph “Papa” Thorson, played by McQueen, who faces threats from a criminal he helped imprison — all while his pregnant girlfriend, Dotty, portrayed by Harrold, prepares to give birth, something he’s not entirely ready for.
Shortly after filming, McQueen was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Against medical advice, he traveled to Mexico for surgery and died of a heart attack hours after the procedure at age 50.
Harrold enjoyed her peak success in the 1980s, including starring opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1986 film Raw Deal. Other notable projects from that period included Modern Romance (1981), The Pursuit of D. B. Cooper (1981), Yes, Giorgio (1982), and The Sender (1982).
After establishing herself in film, she transitioned back to television, appearing in the NBC period drama I’ll Fly Away alongside Regina Taylor and Sam Waterston. She also became a regular on The Larry Sanders Show from 1992 to 1998, playing Francine Sanders.
Harrold later made guest appearances on Desperate Housewives between 2004 and 2006. Her final acting role came in the comedy series Greek, where she appeared in four episodes between 2007 and 2011.
In her personal life, Harrold was married to longtime MSNBC anchor Lawrence O’Donnell from 1994 until 2013. The former couple share one daughter, Elizabeth.
