Mary Crosby is best known for her shocking role in Dallas, but her journey in Hollywood goes far beyond one defining moment. As the daughter of legendary singer Bing Crosby, she had big shoes to fill—but she carved out her own place in television history.
A Hollywood Legacy: Born into Fame
Born on September 14, 1959, in Los Angeles, California, Mary was raised in a world of glamour. Her father, Bing Crosby, was a global icon, but Mary was determined to succeed on her own terms.
Video: Dallas: Kristin pays J.R a visit at the Hospital
By 15, she was already attending the University of Texas at Austin, showing both intelligence and ambition—a rare combination in Hollywood.
Finding Her Own Path in Television
Mary’s acting career took off in the 1970s, landing guest roles in hit shows like Starsky & Hutch. But her big break came when she joined the primetime soap opera Dallas in 1979.
Kristin Shepard: The Role That Defined an Era
In Dallas, Crosby played Kristin Shepard, the scheming sister-in-law and mistress of J.R. Ewing (Larry Hagman).
The Biggest TV Moment:
In 1980, the show ended its third season with a legendary cliffhanger: “Who shot J.R.?” Millions tuned in, and when the mystery was solved, Mary Crosby was at the center of it all—her character, Kristin, had pulled the trigger.
This plot twist became one of the most-watched TV moments in history, forever cementing Mary Crosby’s place in pop culture.
Beyond ‘Dallas’: A Versatile Actress
While Dallas made her famous, Crosby refused to be typecast. She starred in films like:
✔️ The Ice Pirates (1984) – A cult-favorite sci-fi adventure.
✔️ Tapeheads (1988) – A quirky comedy.
✔️ Murder, She Wrote and Matlock – Showcasing her range on TV.
Where Is Mary Crosby Today?
After decades in Hollywood, Crosby stepped back from the spotlight to focus on personal projects, philanthropy, and honoring her father’s legacy.
Video: Catch Up With Mary Crosby | Studio 10
She remains a beloved figure in TV history, and her contributions to Dallas are still celebrated by fans worldwide.
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