Unveiling Susan Ruttan: Life & Career Highlights [Details]

07 May, 2025

Is it possible for a single role to define an entire career, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of television? For Susan Ruttan, the answer, without a doubt, is a resounding yes, as her portrayal of Roxanne Melman in the iconic legal drama L.A. Law solidified her place in the annals of television history.

Born Susan Diane Dunsrud on September 16, 1948, in Oregon City, Oregon, USA, Ruttan's journey through life has been as compelling as the characters she's brought to life on screen. The path that led her to the bright lights of Hollywood, however, was not always paved with gold. At the tender age of twelve, following her parents' divorce, she was adopted by her paternal grandmother, a testament to the resilience and adaptability that would characterize her later career.

From the bustling legal corridors of L.A. Law to the more fantastical realm of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Ruttan's versatility has been evident throughout her career. Her ability to inhabit diverse characters has earned her critical acclaim, including multiple Primetime Emmy Award nominations. Yet, beyond the accolades, it's her dedication to her craft and her enduring presence that resonate most with audiences.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Susan Diane Ruttan (ne Dunsrud)
Date of Birth	September 16, 1948
Place of Birth	Oregon City, Oregon, USA
Occupation	Actress, Producer, Interior Designer
Known For	Roxanne Melman in L.A. Law
Marriages	Randy McDonald (first husband), Melven Ruttan (second husband), Joe Warbis (third husband)
Notable Roles	L.A. Law, Dead Air, Krippendorf's Tribe, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Growing Pains
Other Notable Works	Started her own interior design business in 2000
Filmography Summary	Appeared in 15 television series.
Official Website/Reference	IMDb

The personal life of Susan Ruttan, like that of many in the public eye, has seen its share of trials. Her first husband passed away at the beginning of the 1970s. She later divorced her second husband, and later divorced her third husband Joe Warbis in 1993. The experiences of navigating love and loss have undoubtedly shaped the woman and the actress she is today, adding depth and nuance to her performances.

Ruttan's path to the screen began in Oregon, where she was born and raised. She was only two years old when her parents divorced, a circumstance that undoubtedly shaped her early life and perhaps fostered the strength and independence she would later bring to her roles. In 1984, one of her earliest television appearances was playing a biker on Growing Pains, a glimpse into the varied roles that would define her career.

The year 1986 marked a turning point for Ruttan, as it brought her the role that would immortalize her in the hearts of viewers: Roxanne Melman on L.A. Law. Her portrayal of the complex and often misunderstood Roxanne, a legal secretary, resonated with audiences. The show, with its gritty realism and exploration of complex legal and personal issues, became a cultural phenomenon. Ruttan's performance, marked by her emotional depth and keen understanding of the character, earned her numerous Primetime Emmy Award nominations, cementing her reputation as a formidable talent.

L.A. Law was not merely a job for Ruttan; it was a significant period in her career. She embodied Roxanne Melman from 1986 to 1993. The legal drama, known for its ensemble cast and exploration of the human condition within the framework of law, proved to be the launchpad for her continued success. The show's popularity and the impact it made on television are undisputed.

Her influence extended beyond her acting career, which is evident in her interest in interior design. In 2000, Ruttan started her own interior design business, showcasing another facet of her creativity. This shift demonstrates her willingness to explore new ventures and embrace fresh challenges, reflecting her multi-faceted personality.

Beyond the courtroom dramas and personal tragedies, the actress has amassed a filmography that spans various genres and roles. From Dead Air in 2009 to Krippendorf's Tribe in 1998 and even a guest role on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Ruttan has continuously diversified her portfolio. In essence, her career has been a tapestry woven with threads of drama, humor, and an unyielding dedication to her craft.

Susan Ruttan's life, like any life lived in the public eye, is a series of moments. While she may be most recognized for her role in L.A. Law, her career, her life, and her legacy stretch far beyond it. She is an actress, a producer, and an interior designer. She has navigated the complexities of relationships, the triumphs and tragedies of a career, and the personal evolution that comes with living a life of purpose and passion. What defines her, ultimately, is not one role, but the entirety of her experiences, her resilience, and the indelible mark she has left on the world.

Considered by online popularity, based on the engagement score as of April 06, 2025, Ruttan's career continues to fascinate, and her legacy endures. With each role, with each interview, and with each public appearance, she consistently demonstrates the power of a sustained presence in the entertainment industry. Her journey is a testament to the ability to make an impact, to build a career, and to evolve continuously.

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Susan Ruttan at the 16th Annual People's Choice Awards on March 11

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