Charlie’s Angels Cast Reunites for 50th Anniversary
Nearly fifty years after they first took on assignments from the mysterious Charlie, the stars of Charlie’s Angels are still attracting attention. Kate Jackson, Jaclyn Smith, and Cheryl Ladd came together Monday at PaleyFest LA to celebrate the show’s 50th anniversary. During the event, they shared memories from filming, joked about the show’s famous bikini scenes, and reflected on the series’ influence as well as their personal experiences battling breast cancer.
Cheryl Ladd remembered pushing back against the frequent swimsuit scenes by intentionally buying the most revealing bikini she could find. The move got her labeled a “little troublemaker” by producer Aaron Spelling, but it also led to her gaining more input into what she wore on screen. Jaclyn Smith said she always knew the show stood out. She noted that the series showed three women chasing danger instead of waiting to be rescued, something she said was rare for television at the time. According to Smith, the show helped encourage women to be independent and not feel defined by men.
The actresses also talked about how the series came together. Kate Jackson explained that she helped transform a rejected pilot called Alley Cats into what eventually became Charlie’s Angels. At first, executives at ABC were unsure that a show centered on three women in action roles would succeed. The series also faced a major change when Farrah Fawcett left early in its run. Cheryl Ladd later joined the cast, playing the younger sister of Fawcett’s character.
The discussion grew more serious when the women spoke about their breast cancer diagnoses. Smith recalled the moment Ladd told her the news, saying that one of the first things she did was send Ladd some of her wigs for support during treatment, praising her courage.
Looking back on the show’s legacy, Jackson said its goal was simple: give viewers an hour to relax and enjoy television while quietly delivering a larger message. She said the series helped show that women are just as capable and intelligent as men and able to do anything they set their minds to.
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