How Many Actresses Portrayed Ruthie on ‘That Girl’- A Look Back at the Iconic Role
How many actresses played Ruthie on “That Girl”? This question often piques the interest of fans and newcomers to the iconic 1960s sitcom. “That Girl” was a groundbreaking show that introduced viewers to the character of Ruthie, portrayed by various talented actresses over the years. This article delves into the history of the role and explores the actresses who brought Ruthie to life on screen.
Ruthie was a central character in “That Girl,” a show that aired from 1966 to 1971. The character was created by Ann Marie Martin, who also starred as the show’s protagonist, Bea Arthur. Ruthie was Bea’s younger sister, a free-spirited and adventurous young woman who often found herself in humorous and heartwarming situations.
The first actress to play Ruthie was the late actress, Susan Saint James. She joined the cast in the show’s second season and remained a part of the series until its final season. Saint James brought a youthful energy and charm to the role, making Ruthie a beloved character among viewers.
After Susan Saint James left the show, the role of Ruthie was taken over by actress Marlo Thomas. Thomas, who was also the daughter of the show’s creator, Ann Marie Martin, had previously played the character in a pilot episode. She reprised the role in the third season and continued to portray Ruthie until the show’s conclusion.
In addition to Saint James and Thomas, there were two other actresses who made guest appearances as Ruthie. The first was actress Jane Kaczmarek, who played the character in a 1968 episode. Kaczmarek is perhaps best known for her role as Lois on the hit sitcom “Malcolm in the Middle.” The second actress to play Ruthie was actress and singer-songwriter Carole King, who appeared in a 1970 episode.
In conclusion, a total of four actresses played Ruthie on “That Girl”: Susan Saint James, Marlo Thomas, Jane Kaczmarek, and Carole King. Each actress brought her unique style and personality to the role, contributing to the show’s enduring popularity and Ruthie’s place in television history.
