Tanya Roberts, born Victoria Leigh Blum, remains an enduring figure in Hollywood thanks to her striking on-screen presence and memorable roles in That ’70s Show, Charlie’s Angels, and A View to a Kill. Although her life ended under tragic and confusing circumstances in January 2021, her career, personal sacrifices, and enduring legacy continue to resonate with fans and colleagues alike.
Early Life and Aspirations
Tanya Roberts was born on October 15, 1949, in the Bronx, New York. Raised in a modest household, she spent her early years dreaming of fame and success. According to interviews and biographical sources, she had a passion for fashion, acting, and Hollywood glamour from a young age.
Her journey to stardom began in her teenage years. After moving with her family to Toronto, she made a bold decision to leave home and pursue a life in the arts. Returning to New York City, she started working as a model and began training in acting at prestigious schools, including the Actors Studio.
Transition into Acting
Roberts initially appeared in commercials and off-Broadway theater productions. Her early television work included guest appearances and supporting roles that helped her hone her craft.
She rose to national attention when she joined Charlie’s Angels in its fifth and final season in 1980. Chosen from more than 2,000 hopefuls, Roberts was cast as Julie Rogers, a tough,streetwise character meant to revitalize the struggling series. Although Charlie’s Angels was canceled in 1981, her performance left a lasting impression.
Film Career Highlights
Following her television success, Tanya Roberts transitioned into film. She starred in several 1980s cult classics, including:
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The Beastmaster (1982) – A fantasy adventure film that gained a loyal following over the years.
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Sheena: Queen of the Jungle (1984) – A female-led action film that became a pop culture talking point.
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A View to a Kill (1985) – Roberts played Stacey Sutton, a Bond girl alongside Roger Moore in what would become his final James Bond film.
A View to a Kill was a commercial success, grossing over $150 million globally, but received mixed critical reviews. Roberts’ performance was both celebrated by fans and criticized by some reviewers, which led to a Golden Raspberry Award nomination for Worst Actress. Despite the nomination, her role in the Bond franchise secured her place in cinema history.
Sitcom Success in the 1990s
Roberts’ career saw a resurgence in the late 1990s when she joined the cast of That ’70s Show as Midge Pinciotti, the well-meaning but naive mother of Donna, played by Laura Prepon. The show premiered in 1998 and was a ratings success, introducing Roberts to a new generation of television audiences.
She remained with the show until 2001, when she left to care for her ailing husband, Barry Roberts.
Personal Life and Marriage
Tanya Roberts married Barry Roberts, a screenwriter, in 1974. The couple met in New York and remained together for over 30 years until Barry’s death in 2006. Their relationship was notably private and enduring, with Roberts often describing their bond as central to her life.
Barry passed away following complications related to encephalitis, a serious condition involving inflammation of the brain. Roberts left That ’70s Show during his illness to become his primary caregiver.
The couple did not have children, and Roberts rarely spoke publicly about her private life beyond Barry.
Later Years and Final Relationship
Following Barry’s passing, Roberts later began a relationship with Lance O’Brien. The two met while working with Tahiti Village, a Las Vegas-based timeshare resort, where Roberts served as a spokesperson.
Roberts largely stayed out of the spotlight in her later years, preferring a quiet life in the Hollywood Hills. Known for her daily hikes and active lifestyle, she remained fit and engaged well into her 70s.
Illness and Confusion Surrounding Her Passing
In late December 2020, Roberts began experiencing abdominal discomfort and difficulty breathing, symptoms that arose during one of her regular hikes. She was admitted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, where she was diagnosed with a severe urinary tract infection that had developed into sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition.
According to reports confirmed by media outlets including The New York Times and The Associated Press, the infection rapidly progressed, impacting multiple organs.
Roberts was placed on a ventilator in intensive care. On January 3, 2021, a publicist prematurely announced her death, causing widespread confusion. Media organizations initially reported her death, only to retract their statements when the hospital clarified she was still alive at the time.
Tanya Roberts passed away the following day, on January 4, 2021, at the age of 71.
Estate and Final Note
After her passing, details of Tanya Roberts’ estate came to light. According to Fox News and Page Six, Roberts left her assets—reportedly valued at over $3 million—to Lance O’Brien. A handwritten note she left behind, signed with both her birth name and stage name, expressed emotional pain and hinted at complexities in their relationship.
The note revealed Roberts’ wishes regarding her estate and included messages of farewell. While the document has been a subject of public interest, it primarily serves as a reminder of the emotional challenges she faced near the end of her life.
Legacy and Impact
Tanya Roberts’ legacy is multifaceted. She was more than just a Bond girl or a sitcom mom—she was a dedicated actress, a loving partner, and a woman who made bold choices in both her personal and professional life.
Her career spanned modeling, television, and film, with standout performances that continue to be appreciated by fans old and new. From her breakout role in Charlie’s Angels to her heartfelt presence on That ’70s Show, Roberts demonstrated resilience, passion, and a deep commitment to her craft.
She also embodied quiet strength in her personal life—most notably during her husband’s long illness—and showed determination even in her final days.
In Memoriam
Tanya Roberts will be remembered not only for her beauty and charisma but for her contributions to pop culture and her enduring impact on fans around the world. Whether through her iconic roles or her courageous personal journey, she left behind a legacy defined by determination, loyalty, and grace.
Her story is a testament to the challenges and triumphs of life in the public eye, and her memory continues to inspire admiration and respect.
