Victoria Principal, known for her iconic role as Pamela Barnes Ewing on the TV series “Dallas,” is a talented American actress, novelist, producer, and businesswoman. From 1978 to 1987, Principal captivated audiences with her portrayal of Pamela. After spending nine years on “Dallas,” she went on to launch Victoria Principal Productions and venture into several successful enterprises.
While most of Principal’s work was in television, she also appeared in films produced by her own company, such as “Naked Lie,” “Blind Witness,” and “Sparks: The Price of Passion” in 1989 and 1990. Principal eventually decided to explore new opportunities and resigned from the production company she had built.
Throughout her life, Principal embraced her creativity and determination. Although she was married and divorced twice without having children, she found fulfillment as an author, actress, and producer. One of her notable achievements includes writing the self-help book “Living Principal,” which is one of four books she authored on health, beauty, and fitness. Inspired by her passion for beauty and well-being, Principal also created the skincare line Principal Secret.
Principal’s skincare business, which began in 1989, offers a range of products like daily cleansers, eye serums, and moisturizers. In 2019, she decided to step away from the company to dedicate more time to charitable endeavors. Even at the age of 72, Principal remains committed to her skincare routine. Discover Principal’s journey and visit her to learn more about her fascinating life.
Born on January 3, 1950, in Fukuoka, Japan, Principal spent her early years traveling due to her father’s military profession. She lived in various places, including London, Puerto Rico, Florida, Massachusetts, and Georgia, attending a total of 17 different schools. In England, she even had the opportunity to study at the prestigious Royal Ballet School. Principal’s talent was evident from a young age, as she began appearing in commercials at the age of five.
After graduating from South Dade Senior High School in 1968, Principal initially pursued a career in medicine, studying at Miami-Dade Community College. However, her path took a different turn when she was involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver. After a lengthy recovery period, she made the bold decision to pursue acting instead.
Principal’s acting journey led her from New York to London, where she studied at the renowned Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. In 1970, she moved to Los Angeles to build her career as an actress. Alongside legendary actor Paul Newman, Principal starred in films such as “The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean.” Her exceptional performance earned her a nomination for the best newcomer award.
However, it was the role of Pamela Barnes Ewing in the CBS primetime soap opera “Dallas” that truly launched Principal’s career. A Hollywood talent agency recognized her fit for the character and she impressed the casting director during her audition. Principal felt an immediate connection to the role and knew she wanted to be part of something special. Despite not developing close relationships with her co-stars, she fondly remembers her time on “Dallas.”
“We worked and lived in quite different ways,” Principal explained. “When I started the show, Patrick, Steve, Larry, and Linda were all married with children. Single. Those are two completely different ways of existence.”
After a successful run on “Dallas,” Principal made the difficult decision to leave the show due to a deterioration in the writing during its later years. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, she shared, “The first five years on ‘Dallas’ were so beautifully wonderful—then some important writers departed, and by year 7, there was a deterioration in the writing, which was a huge factor in my decision to leave.” Principal’s departure caused a stir, as she was offered a significant salary increase to stay, but she remained true to herself and declined the offer.
Despite moving on from “Dallas,” Principal cherishes the memories and the impact her character had on fans. Almost 30 years later, a new generation is discovering the show, a fact that brings her joy. She even expressed delight at parents and grandparents introducing their children to “Dallas.”
Throughout the years, Principal has dedicated herself to ecological and philanthropic work. She believes in prioritizing the well-being of the planet and its inhabitants. In an interview with The Huffington Post, she emphasized the importance of a healthy world for education, hunger, and science to have meaning. To further her commitment, Principal established The Victoria Principal Foundation For Thoughtful Existence, focusing on ecology, oceans, hazardous substances, children, and animals.
Principal’s love for animals led her to work tirelessly in their rehabilitation and care. She works with mistreated or abused animals, providing them with medical attention, patience, and compassion. Her dedication goes beyond charity work, as she provides these animals a lifelong home.
Additionally, as an ambassador for the Arthritis Foundation, Principal has played a crucial role in advocating for research and funding for autoimmune disorders, including arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and scleroderma.
Principal’s success extends beyond her acting career. She established Principal Secret, a skincare line that has been her greatest accomplishment outside of “Dallas.” Initially, she created these products to address her own skin concerns, but she decided to share her findings with others. At the age of 72, Principal’s radiant and youthful appearance is a testament to the effectiveness of her skincare line.
Principal’s passion for skincare dates back to her childhood. She still finds enchantment in the skincare ritual, appreciating the gentle opening and closing of product containers and luxurious formulas that leave the skin glowing. Her own struggles with adult acne and allergic reactions to many skincare and makeup ingredients inspired her to develop a holistic skincare regimen. Working with a chemist, she created cleansers, moisturizers, and eye products free from irritants.
To maintain youthful and healthy skin, Principal emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Drinking enough water, getting outside to enjoy fresh air, and focusing on how you feel rather than your age are her essential tips. Of course, she also recommends using a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer with SPF for daytime, and an eye cream as fundamental steps in any skincare routine.
Victoria Principal’s remarkable career, dedication to philanthropy, and passion for skincare have shaped her extraordinary life. Even today, she continues to inspire others with her achievements and timeless beauty.
