A Multi-Talented Career

Victoria has always been a multi-hyphenate. Throughout her career, she excelled as an actress, author, producer, and skincare entrepreneur. Her diverse background contributed to her success, as she adapted to various environments growing up.

Early Life

Birth and Upbringing

Victoria Ree Principal was born on January 3, 1950, in Fukuoka, Japan. Her father, a U.S. Air Force Sergeant, was stationed there, and Victoria spent her early months on Japanese soil. The family frequently moved between U.S. Air Force bases, with Victoria living in England, Puerto Rico, Massachusetts, and Florida.

Education and Challenges

Victoria attended 17 different schools, including the Royal Ballet School in England. Reports on her childhood vary. While some describe her relationship with her mother as complex and her childhood as difficult, others highlight the positive aspects. Despite these challenges, Victoria’s resilience shone through.

Career Beginnings and Setbacks

Early Start

Victoria began her career young, landing a television commercial at age 5. Initially, she pursued medicine at Miami-Dade Community College but was involved in a severe car accident just months before completing her first year. This setback led her to reconsider her career path.

Shift to Acting

After recovering, Victoria moved to New York City and then to Los Angeles in 1971 to pursue acting. She gained attention with her role in John Huston’s “The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean” but faced struggles finding satisfying roles. Despite a Golden Globe nomination, her career had ups and downs, including a period of working as a talent agent.

Rise to Fame

Breakthrough with “Dallas”

Victoria’s life changed when she read the script for “Dallas.” She knew instantly that the role of Pamela Barnes Ewing was meant for her. Victoria’s involvement in the show allowed her to negotiate her own contract with CBS, giving her creative freedom and control over her image.

Impact and Success

“Dallas,” which premiered in 1978, became an international sensation. Victoria’s role as Pamela was a major reason for the show’s success. During her nine years on the show, she received numerous nominations and remained a fan favorite.

Post-“Dallas” Ventures

Skincare Success

After leaving “Dallas” in 1987, Victoria invested heavily in her skincare company, Principal Secret. The brand, launched in 1984, has generated over $1.5 billion in revenue. Victoria’s net worth is estimated at $350 million, largely due to the success of her skincare line.

Philanthropy

Victoria stepped away from her company in 2019 to focus on philanthropy. Her foundation has made significant contributions, including donations to disaster relief efforts.

Personal Life and Legacy

Marriages and Relationships

Victoria has been married and divorced twice. She was married to Christopher Skinner, a young actor, and later to Dr. Harry Glassman, a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon. Despite public speculation, she has denied using her husband’s services for cosmetic procedures.

Current Life

Now 74, Victoria Principal is active on social media, sharing glimpses of her life on her ranch and her philanthropic work. Her Facebook page reveals her ongoing dedication to animal rescue and her past as a beloved actress.