For 25 years, Susan Flannery defined what it meant to be a soap opera matriarch. As Stephanie Forrester on CBS's The Bold and the Beautiful, she created one of the most memorable, complex, and beloved characters in daytime television history.
When The Bold and the Beautiful said goodbye to Susan Flannery in November 2012, it marked the end of an era. She had been there from the very first episode on March 24, 1987, and her departure left a void that many fans say has never been filled.
From Day One: A Star is Born
Susan Flannery was one of the original "core four" actors who launched The Bold and the Beautiful in 1987. Alongside John McCook (Eric Forrester), Ronn Moss (Ridge Forrester), and Katherine Kelly Lang (Brooke Logan), she helped establish the glamorous world of the Forrester fashion empire.
As Stephanie, Flannery portrayed the fiercely protective matriarch of the Forrester family - a woman who would do anything to protect her children and her husband's legacy. Her battles with Brooke Logan became the stuff of daytime legend, spawning some of the most iconic confrontations in soap opera history.
Career Highlights
- 25 years as Stephanie Forrester (1987-2012)
- 3 Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress (2000, 2002, 2003)
- 9 total Daytime Emmy nominations
- Ranked #1 on "Bold and Beautiful's Best Characters Ever"
- Ranked #6 on "Soaps' 40 Most Iconic Characters of All Time"
The Iconic Moments
Stephanie Forrester gave us countless memorable moments over her 25-year run:
The Brooke Battles
Stephanie's legendary feud with Brooke Logan was the backbone of B&B for decades. From physical confrontations at the Big Bear cabin to psychological warfare in the Forrester mansion, their rivalry defined the show. Yet remarkably, it was in Brooke's arms that Stephanie would ultimately take her final breath.
The Faked Heart Attack
In one of her most outrageous schemes, Stephanie faked a heart attack - enlisting the help of Dr. Mark Maclaine - to try to break up Ridge and Brooke. When the truth came out, it became one of the show's most talked-about storylines.
Life on the Streets
After suffering a stroke that caused amnesia, Stephanie lived for months on the streets of Los Angeles. In a touching twist, it was her longtime rival Sally Spectra who helped her find her way home - showing the depth and complexity of soap opera relationships.
The Final Chapter
In late 2012, Susan Flannery made the decision to leave the show. Reports indicated she was "unhappy and disappointed" with contract negotiations, but she agreed to stay long enough for the writers to craft a proper sendoff.
The storyline they created was devastating and beautiful: Stephanie was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer and chose to spend her final days surrounded by family rather than pursuing futile treatment.
The Death Scene
On November 26, 2012, Stephanie Forrester died at the family's Big Bear cabin. In a scene that earned both Susan Flannery and Katherine Kelly Lang Emmy nominations, Stephanie asked Brooke - her longtime rival turned friend - to sing to her as she passed.
Brooke began singing "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling," and Stephanie died peacefully in her arms. It remains one of the most emotional scenes in soap opera history - a testament to both the writing and the extraordinary performances of both actresses.
The Return
In December 2023, Susan Flannery made a brief return to The Bold and the Beautiful. When Eric Forrester was hospitalized after surgery, Stephanie appeared as a spirit at his bedside - a touching reunion that delighted longtime fans.
A Legacy That Endures
Today, Stephanie Forrester's portrait still hangs in the Forrester mansion, and her presence is still felt on the show. Characters reference her wisdom, her strength, and yes, her legendary temper.
But more than that, Susan Flannery's portrayal of Stephanie taught us something about the power of fictional characters to affect our lives. Millions of viewers invited Stephanie into their homes five days a week for 25 years. They celebrated her triumphs, worried about her health, and genuinely grieved when she passed.
That's the power of a truly great soap opera character - and a truly great actress.
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