Victoria Principal is a name that resonates with fans of classic television. Best known for her role as Pamela Barnes Ewing on Dallas, she captivated audiences with her charm, talent, and striking beauty. But her influence extends beyond acting—she became a successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and author. This article explores the fascinating journey of Victoria Principal, from her Hollywood beginnings to her impact on business and charity.
Early Life and Education
Victoria Principal was born Vicki Ree Principal on January 3, 1950, in Fukuoka, Japan. As the daughter of a United States Air Force sergeant, her early years were filled with travel. She spent time in London, Puerto Rico, and various parts of the United States.
Her early exposure to different cultures helped shape her confidence and adaptability. She initially planned to pursue a career in medicine, enrolling at Miami-Dade Community College. However, a severe car accident changed the course of her life, leading her to reconsider her path. Instead of returning to medical studies, she moved to New York and later London to study acting, eventually settling in Los Angeles to chase her Hollywood dreams.
Breaking into Hollywood
Victoria Principal’s Hollywood journey began in the early 1970s. She made her film debut in The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean (1972), starring alongside Paul Newman. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Most Promising Newcomer.
Following this success, she starred in The Naked Ape (1973) and the disaster film Earthquake (1974). To stand out in the competitive industry, she took bold steps, even changing her hairstyle drastically to secure roles. However, despite her early success, she soon became disillusioned with acting and took a brief break to work as a talent agent.
The Breakthrough Role in Dallas
After a short hiatus from acting, Victoria Principal returned to television in a major way. She auditioned for Dallas, a primetime soap opera that would become one of the most successful TV series of all time. Her portrayal of Pamela Barnes Ewing, the compassionate and strong-willed wife of Bobby Ewing, won over audiences.
Principal’s chemistry with co-star Patrick Duffy was undeniable, making their on-screen relationship one of the most beloved in television history. The “Who Shot J.R.?” storyline in 1980 catapulted Dallas into a cultural phenomenon, with millions tuning in worldwide.
She remained with the show for nine seasons before deciding to leave in 1987. Principal wanted to expand her career beyond acting, focusing on producing, writing, and business ventures.
Building an Empire: Entrepreneurial Success
Victoria Principal didn’t just leave Dallas—she reinvented herself. She launched Victoria Principal Productions, producing made-for-TV movies that reflected her creative vision. But her biggest business success came in the beauty industry.
In 1989, she introduced Principal Secret, a skincare line that quickly became a multi-million-dollar brand. Her passion for skincare and health led her to study cosmetic chemistry, ensuring her products were high-quality and effective. Over time, Principal Secret became a leader in the beauty industry, generating over $1.5 billion in revenue.
Her business acumen extended to publishing. She authored several best-selling books on beauty, health, and wellness, including:
- The Body Principal (1983)
- The Beauty Principal (1984)
- The Diet Principal (1987)
- Living Principal (2001)
Her books empowered readers to embrace a healthy and balanced lifestyle, reinforcing her reputation as a wellness advocate.
Personal Life and High-Profile Relationships
Victoria Principal’s personal life often made headlines, especially her relationship with singer Andy Gibb. The two met in 1981 and had an intense romance, but it ended due to Gibb’s struggles with drug addiction. Principal later revealed that she had to choose between staying with him or protecting her own well-being.
She married writer-producer Christopher Skinner in 1978, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1981. In 1985, she married Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Harry Glassman. Their marriage lasted over 20 years before they divorced in 2006.
Despite these high-profile relationships, Principal has remained a fiercely independent woman, prioritizing her career and philanthropic efforts.
Philanthropy and Environmental Advocacy
Victoria Principal has dedicated much of her life to philanthropy. In 2006, she established the Victoria Principal Foundation for Thoughtful Existence, focusing on environmental conservation, animal rescue, and children’s welfare.
Some of her notable contributions include:
- Donating $200,000 to support the cleanup of the Gulf Coast after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill
- Funding rescue operations for animals affected by wildfires and natural disasters
- Supporting Oceana and NRDC to fight against offshore drilling
She has also funded various initiatives, including wildfire prevention programs and emergency disaster relief efforts. Her commitment to making a difference proves that she is much more than just a Hollywood actress—she is a force for positive change.
Legacy and Impact
Victoria Principal’s career has been a remarkable journey of reinvention. From a Hollywood actress to a business mogul and philanthropist, she has continuously evolved, proving that success isn’t limited to one industry.
Her role in Dallas cemented her as a television icon, but her accomplishments in beauty, wellness, and philanthropy have made an equally lasting impact. Even after stepping away from acting, she remains an inspiration to women worldwide, showing that ambition and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements.
As she continues her advocacy work, Victoria Principal’s legacy will undoubtedly endure, reminding us that reinvention is always possible and that success can be measured in more ways than one.