Susan Howard, renowned for her iconic eight-year portrayal of Donna Krebbs in the esteemed prime-time soap opera Dallas (1978),was born Jeri Lynn Mooney in Marshall, Texas. Growing up, her father instilled in her a sense of self-confidence, telling her she was talented, beautiful, and wonderful. Although she respected and loved her father, she eventually realized that his words were somewhat exaggerated, but by then, she was already hooked on the idea of becoming an actress.
Susan's passion for drama was evident during her high school years at Marshall High, where she excelled in the dramatic arts and won the UIL Best Actress Award. This achievement earned her a spot at the University of Texas, where she spent two years before the allure of Hollywood beckoned her to the West Coast. Her subsequent membership in the Los Angeles Repertory Company and her time at the University of Texas instilled in her the discipline and perspective she needed to succeed in the competitive world of Hollywood.
Susan's early career was marked by guest appearances on popular television shows, including Bonanza (1959),The Flying Nun (1967),and I Dream of Jeannie (1965). Her breakthrough role came when she was cast as Maggie Petrocelli opposite Barry Newman in Petrocelli (1974),earning her nominations for both Emmy and Golden Globe awards.
The role that cemented Susan's status as a television icon was that of Donna Culver Krebbs in Dallas (1978). Initially, the part was meant to be a one-time guest shot, but the producers were so impressed with her performance that they expanded the role, and she became a regular cast member until 1987. However, when the script called for Donna to engage in an affair with another character, Susan refused the change and left the show.
Susan is currently married to Calvin Chrane and resides outside Austin, Texas. She was appointed by then-Governor George W. Bush to serve as a commissioner for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and is also a member of the board of directors for the National Rifle Association, where she chairs the Public Policy Committee. The Chranes have one daughter, Lynn, and two grandchildren, Daniel and Noelle. Susan remains an active member of the Writers Guild of America and continues to write for television, a passion she nurtured during her time on Dallas (1978).
