When it comes to iconic nighttime soap operas of the 1980s, Knots Landing is undoubtedly one of the most memorable. One of the key reasons for the show’s enduring legacy is the unforgettable character of Paige Matheson, played by none other than Nicollette Sheridan. From her seductive and manipulative role on Knots Landing to becoming the fan-favorite villain on Desperate Housewives, Sheridan’s career has seen its fair share of ups and downs. But what is the story behind the actress who captivated audiences with her talent and beauty?
Who Is Nicollette Sheridan? A Hollywood Legacy
Nicollette Sheridan wasn’t just any actress vying for attention in Hollywood—she grew up in the entertainment industry. Born in England, Sheridan moved to the U.S. at the age of 10 and soon found herself surrounded by famous names. Her mother, actress Sally Adams, was romantically involved with Telly Savalas, best known for his role as Blofeld in the James Bond series.
While Sheridan’s roots were in Hollywood, she struggled to fit in, especially due to her British accent. Determined to make a mark, she spent years perfecting an American accent to blend into her surroundings. Her hard work and dedication eventually paid off when she landed her breakthrough role as Paige Matheson in Knots Landing.
Paige Matheson: The Role That Made Her a Star
Sheridan burst onto the scene in 1986 as Paige Matheson, a character who was as ambitious and mischievous as she was beautiful. Knots Landing had already been running for several years, but Sheridan’s arrival brought new life to the show. Paige wasn’t just another pretty face; she was a dynamic character who had viewers hooked with her complex personality.
Sheridan portrayed Paige as a strong, ambitious woman who wasn’t afraid to manipulate situations to her advantage. But she also showed a softer, more vulnerable side, making the character relatable to audiences. This blend of traits helped Sheridan earn the 1990 Soap Opera Digest award for Outstanding Lead Actress.
Hollywood Success and Public Recognition
At the height of her Knots Landing fame, Sheridan became a household name. In 1990, she was listed as one of People magazine’s “50 Most Beautiful People,” further solidifying her status as a Hollywood bombshell. Her portrayal of Paige Matheson wasn’t just a career milestone; it was a role that would define her in the public eye for years to come.
But as many stars have discovered, fame comes with a price, and Sheridan’s personal life became just as intriguing to the public as her on-screen roles.
A Tumultuous Love Life: Marriages, Affairs, and Drama
Sheridan’s love life has been the subject of public fascination, particularly her short-lived marriage to actor Harry Hamlin in 1991. The marriage lasted only 11 months, and rumors soon swirled about the reasons behind their split. While Hamlin’s second wife, Lisa Rinna, claimed Sheridan had cheated on Hamlin with singer Michael Bolton, Sheridan has denied these accusations.
Regardless of the rumors, Sheridan did go on to date Bolton in 1992, and the two had an on-again, off-again relationship that spanned nearly 16 years. They even became engaged in 2006, but their relationship officially ended two years later. In a strange twist of fate, after her split from Bolton, Sheridan married Aaron Phypers—only to divorce six months later. Phypers would go on to marry Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Denise Richards.
The Edie Britt Era: Desperate Housewives Drama
After her success on Knots Landing, Sheridan’s career continued to evolve, culminating in her role as Edie Britt on Desperate Housewives. Edie was another one of Sheridan’s iconic characters—a bold, brash, and unapologetically confident woman who stole the show. However, her time on the hit series came to an abrupt end when her character was killed off.
Sheridan’s departure from Desperate Housewives sparked controversy, as she claimed her firing was linked to accusations she had made against the show’s creator, Marc Cherry. Sheridan alleged that Cherry physically assaulted her and that her firing was retaliation. The legal battle was a media sensation, but in 2017, her lawsuit was ultimately thrown out.
Fans of Desperate Housewives were vocal about their disappointment, with many claiming the show was never the same without Edie Britt. The role was a turning point in Sheridan’s career, marking both a professional high and a personal conflict that would lead her to step back from the limelight.
Life After the Spotlight: Focusing on Family
Following her departure from Desperate Housewives, Sheridan began to take on smaller roles, including several Hallmark Channel movies and a stint on the Dynasty reboot. But in 2019, she made a life-altering decision. Sheridan chose to leave Dynasty to care for her terminally ill mother, showing that, at the end of the day, family comes first.
Sheridan’s choice to step away from her career in favor of her personal life marked a significant chapter in her journey. It was a reminder that, behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, there’s a real person who faces the same challenges and heartbreaks as everyone else.
Where Is Nicollette Sheridan Now?
Today, Nicollette Sheridan remains a beloved figure in Hollywood. While she may not be in the spotlight as often as she once was, her legacy as an actress is firmly cemented. From her iconic roles in Knots Landing and Desperate Housewives to her appearances in smaller, passion-driven projects, Sheridan continues to be remembered for her undeniable talent and captivating screen presence.
Conclusion
Nicollette Sheridan’s rise to fame in Knots Landing and her unforgettable role in Desperate Housewives made her a household name in the world of television. Yet, her life has been far from a fairytale, with tumultuous relationships, personal conflicts, and professional challenges shaping her journey. Despite the ups and downs, Sheridan’s talent and resilience have allowed her to remain an enduring figure in Hollywood, proving that she is more than just a pretty face—she’s a force to be reckoned with.
