CHERYL LADD Do What You LOVE

The Charlie's Angels star talks about family, marriage and her latest movie

- Natalie Posner

It's hard to believe that Cheryl Ladd turned down the chance to join the cast of Charlie's Angels in 1977. "I was replacing Farrah Fawcett, and she was the biggest star on the planet," Cheryl tells Closer. "I thought, 'How can anyone do that?" Fortunately, producer Aaron Spelling was persistent and Cheryl changed her mind. She made her debut as Kris Munroe in the second season. "The most rewarding thing was that it was a big success," says the actress, 70. "The second season of the show actually had higher ratings than the first. I was so relieved!"

After Charlie's Angels, Cheryl - who first arrived in California from her native South Dakota to be a singer - became a regular presence on television and in films. Most recently, she starred in A Cowgirl's Song. "I play a country and western singer who is sort of retired since she lost her husband," says Cheryl. "She faces some challenges, and then she has to get back up on the horse and do a concert. Filming it was a joyful experience all the way around."

Many actresses say they have trouble finding roles after age 30, but you are always working. What's your secret?

I'm one of those people who still have a name because of Charlie's Angels - the show is always airing somewhere on the planet! So I get some nice opportunities, although I am picky. Every now and then I find something I really love like A Cowgirl's Song.

What's special about it?

It's a family movie filled with music and entertainment. I feel like that's something we could all use right now after Covid. A reminder about the importance of family.

A lot of little girls grew up idolizing you on Charlie's Angels. Did you have any idols growing up?