Margaret "Peg" Phillips, a remarkable individual, embarked on a new chapter in her life at the age of 65, enrolling in acting classes after retiring from her career as an accountant. This bold move led to her being cast in the iconic role of Ruth-Anne Miller, the shopkeeper, in the popular television series Northern Exposure, which premiered in 1990. Initially, the role was intended to be intermittent, but Peg's captivating portrayal of Ruth-Anne won the hearts of audiences worldwide, ultimately transforming the character into a regular fixture in the show.
In addition to her notable work on Northern Exposure, Peg appeared alongside renowned actress Shirley MacLaine in the 1990 film Waiting for the Light. Her impressive filmography also includes TV movies such as How the West Was Fun (1994) and Chase (1985),as well as guest appearances on notable television shows like 7th Heaven (1996),Touched by an Angel (1994),and ER (1994). Her extensive range extended to numerous commercials, solidifying her status as a talented and versatile actress.
Born in Everett, Washington, Peg's life was marked by resilience and determination. She overcame a series of formidable health challenges, including polio, peritonitis, a ruptured aorta, and a broken hip and wrist sustained at the age of 81 after being hit by a car. Furthermore, Peg was a lifelong smoker, taking up the habit at the age of 13. Despite these obstacles, she continued to thrive until her passing at the age of 84 due to lung disease in a suburban Seattle care center.
Peg Phillips' remarkable life serves as a testament to her unwavering spirit and unrelenting pursuit of her passions, even in the face of adversity. Her legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.
