Recognize her? Better sit before you learn her true identity…

As a teen in Denver, Joan Van Ark’s encounter with actress Julie Harris changed her life. Encouraged by Harris, she pursued admission to Yale Drama School, securing a scholarship Harris helped arrange.

Becoming the second woman enrolled, Van Ark cherished the opportunity. Reflecting on the pivotal moment, she recalled, “My parents drove me to New Haven, Connecticut, to meet the dean, who gave me a scholarship. It was meant to be.” Transitioning from theater to television, Van Ark found her true passion.

Temperature’s Rising, Spider-Woman, and Days of Our Lives

Joan Van Ark gained fame for her roles in various shows like “Temperature’s Rising,” “Spider-Woman,” and “Days of Our Lives.” However, it was her portrayal of Valene Ewing on “Dallas” in 1978 that catapulted her to great popularity. Reflecting on her career, she stated, “I ended up playing the most important role I have ever had.”

Because of how popular the show was, Joan appeared on its spin-off, Knots Landing. a program that was actually written prior to Dallas. Dallas was initially chosen by the producers because it was the best option for portraying affluent households at the time. Joan was then forced to play the same part in Dallas instead of joining the Knots Landing cast.

Joan Van Ark embarked on a 13-season journey with “Knots Landing.” Despite juggling multiple projects, her husband, John Marshall, convinced her to take the role. A pivotal moment arose when the show cast Julie Harris as Val Ewing’s mother, a choice that deeply moved Van Ark. Recalling the moment, she exclaimed, “I couldn’t believe they had picked her to be my mother. They didn’t even know we were friends.”

In a 1984 interview with Florida Today, Joan Van Ark recalled the moment the producers revealed who would play her mother on the show: “When the producers told me they had finally found someone to play my mother, I held my breath. I thought, ‘Oh my God, are they going to say Phyllis Diller or Zsa Zsa Gabor, or who?’ Then they said it was Julie Harris, and I went right through the roof. I couldn’t believe they had picked her to be my mother. They didn’t even know we were friends.”

327 Episodes later, Joan Van Ark was ready for new ventures

After 13 seasons on “Knots Landing,” Joan left a season before its finale. Despite rumors linking her departure to the show’s cancellation, she embraced new opportunities. Expressing gratitude, she said, “I have loved more than life the 13 years I’ve had on that show.” Joan credited creator David Jacobs for his influence and cherished her bond with co-star Ted Shackelford. She viewed the cast as family, having shared significant life events together. Transitioning to “The Young and The Restless,” she assumed the role of Gloria Fisher.

High school sweethearts, John Marshall and Joan tied the knot and welcomed their daughter, Vanessa Marshall, who now works in entertainment. Despite 56 years of marriage, they maintain a private life, away from the spotlight, while still deeply in love.

78 years old with a net worth of $10 million

At 78 years old, Joan has amassed a $10 million net worth and is still as gorgeous as ever when seen out and about in Los Angeles. She was last seen three years ago and was just seen paying for parking at a meter while wearing workout clothes and a ponytail.

She co-starred in the 2017 television film Psycho Wedding Crasher, which was her most recent and final appearance on screen.

Joan Van Ark, who has worked in the film industry for the past 50 years, has joined The Actor’s Studio as a life member. What an icon!