Where Is the Cast of “Kate & Allie” Now? From Jane Curtin to the Cast Member Who Left Hollywood to Become a Nurse

The beloved sitcom “Kate & Allie” first premiered on CBS on March 19, 1984, telling the story of two divorced friends who decide to raise their children together in New York City. The show starred Susan Saint James as the free-spirited Kate and Jane Curtin as the practical Allie, who move in together with their three kids after their divorces. PEOPLE magazine highlighted the groundbreaking nature of the series in 1984, praising the complex, multi-dimensional female characters and their genuine friendship that sustained them through life’s challenges.

Susan Saint James and Jane Curtin, the lead actresses of the show, shared their initial hesitations about signing onto the series despite finding the roles appealing. They both valued the stability and flexibility that the show provided, allowing them to balance their acting careers with raising their families. Curtin’s post-“Kate & Allie” career included roles in shows like “3rd Rock from the Sun,” while Saint James chose to focus more on guest appearances and her advocacy work for organizations like the Special Olympics.

Ari Meyers, who portrayed Kate’s daughter Emma on the show, made a surprising career change after leaving acting behind. She pursued nursing and found fulfillment in helping others in a different capacity. Frederick Koehler, who played Allie’s son Chip, continued to work in the entertainment industry, appearing in various TV shows and films, including the popular “Death Race” series. Allison Smith, who portrayed Jennie Lowell, pursued a diverse acting career post-“Kate & Allie,” landing roles in shows like “The West Wing” and “Family Guy.”

The cast of “Kate & Allie” had a lasting impact on viewers, especially those who resonated with the portrayal of unconventional family dynamics on the show. Allison Smith and Ari Meyers remained close friends even after their time on the series, showcasing the lasting bonds formed during their time working together. Smith later transitioned into owning an inn with her husband, indicating a shift towards a new chapter in her life outside of acting.

Sam Freed, who played Bob Barsky, Allie’s love interest on the show, found continued success in the industry with roles in popular TV shows like “The Wire” and the Law & Order franchise. Despite the challenges of being typecast, Freed persevered and built a diverse acting portfolio throughout his career. The cast of “Kate & Allie” demonstrated resilience and versatility in navigating the entertainment industry post-series, showcasing their talents in various projects and endeavours.

As the legacy of “Kate & Allie” lives on, the stories of the cast members continue to unfold, reflecting their evolution both personally and professionally. From pursuing new careers to embracing different creative ventures, the actors have left a mark on the industry and the audiences who fondly remember the iconic sitcom. The enduring friendships forged on and off-screen serve as a testament to the lasting impact of the show and its beloved characters.