The primetime soap Dallas stands as one of the most successful in TV history, and it’s always held a special place in my heart. I could rewatch the entire series just to see Victoria Principal grace the screen once more.
Victoria Principal, who played Pamela Barnes Ewing, was one of the main reasons viewers tuned in, alongside Larry Hagman’s portrayal of the ruthless oil baron J.R. Ewing.
Now 74 years old, Victoria remains as stunning as ever, and her latest photos might surprise you.
Throughout her impressive career, Victoria has worn many hats: actress, author, producer, and skincare entrepreneur. Her adaptability might stem from her unique upbringing, having lived in various places around the world.
Born in Japan on January 3, 1950, Victoria Ree Principal spent her early months in Fukuoka, where her father, a U.S. Air Force Sergeant, was stationed. Her childhood was marked by constant moves, from England to Puerto Rico, Massachusetts, and Florida, attending 17 different schools, including the Royal Ballet School in England.
Victoria’s childhood has been described in varying ways. While she once expressed in an interview that she wished she had known her childhood would end, she’s also been quoted as saying, “I was very lucky. My parents raised me in such a way that it never occurred to me that I wasn’t equal.”
Starting her career early, Victoria landed her first job in a TV commercial at just five years old. However, she initially pursued a different path, studying medicine at Miami-Dade Community College. But fate intervened when a serious car accident derailed her plans. After recovering, Victoria moved to New York City to pursue acting, which led to her breakthrough role in The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean, starring alongside Paul Newman.
Despite early success, Victoria faced challenges in Hollywood, leading her to take a break and work as a talent agent. It was during this time that she encountered the script for Dallas, which reignited her passion for acting. She knew immediately that the role of Pamela Barnes Ewing was meant for her.
Victoria’s portrayal of Pamela helped make Dallas an international phenomenon. During her nine years on the show, she earned a Golden Globe nomination and became a household name. While she wasn’t particularly close with her castmates, she shared a professional bond with Larry Hagman, who played J.R. Ewing.
In 1987, Victoria left Dallas, turning down a contract that would have made her the highest-paid actress on TV at the time. She wanted to maintain her independence and explore other opportunities, including her successful skincare company, Principal Secret, which she launched in 1984. The company generated over $1.5 billion in revenue, and Victoria amassed a net worth of $350 million.
In 2019, Victoria announced her retirement from the skincare business to focus on philanthropy through The Victoria Principal Foundation for Thoughtful Existence and her animal rescue work. She has made significant contributions, including donating rescue boats to the American Humane Society and supporting fire restoration efforts after the California wildfires.
Victoria’s personal life has also been of interest to many, though she has kept much of it private. She has been married twice and has no children of her own but remains close to her ex-husband’s children.
Today, she spends her time on her ranch outside Los Angeles, where she continues her work with animals and shares glimpses of her life on social media.
Victoria Principal remains a timeless beauty and an inspiration, embodying grace, strength, and kindness.
