Cheryl Ladd

Biography

Cheryl Ladd, born Cheryl Jean Stoppelmoor on July 12, 1951, in Huron, South Dakota, is an American actress, singer, and author. She is best known for her role as Kris Munroe in the ABC television series Charlie's Angels, joining the cast in its second season in 1977 as a replacement for Farrah Fawcett. Ladd remained on the show until its cancellation in 1981.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Raised in Huron, South Dakota, Ladd was the second daughter of Dolores, a waitress, and Marion Stoppelmoor, a railroad engineer. After high school, she toured with the band The Music Shop before settling in Los Angeles in 1970. Initially pursuing a music career, she provided the singing voice for Melody in the animated series Josie and the Pussycats under the name "Cherie Moor."

Television and Film Career

Ladd's breakthrough came with Charlie's Angels, where her portrayal of Kris Munroe revitalized the series. Post-Angels, she appeared in various television films and miniseries, including Grace Kelly (1983) and Jekyll & Hyde (1990). Her film roles include Purple Hearts (1984), Millennium (1989), Poison Ivy (1992), and Permanent Midnight (1998).

Music and Stage

Parallel to her acting, Ladd pursued a music career, releasing several albums. Her self-titled debut album in 1978 reached No. 129 on the Billboard 200, with the single "Think It Over" peaking at No. 34. In 2000, she starred as Annie Oakley in the Broadway revival of Annie Get Your Gun.

Personal Life and Advocacy

Ladd married actor David Ladd in 1973, with whom she had a daughter, actress Jordan Ladd. Following their divorce in 1980, she married music producer Brian Russell in 1981. An avid golfer, Ladd authored Token Chick: A Woman’s Guide to Golfing with the Boys in 2005. She is also a celebrity ambassador for Childhelp, a non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child abuse. ​