Joan Van Ark gained fame portraying Valene Ewing on Dallas, but it was her notable presence in the spin-off series Knots Landing that made her a household name. Joan was seen again as Valene Ewing in 2012, although this time, it was just for a single episode. Today, she finds happiness in a long-lasting marriage with her high school sweetheart and is the proud mother of a daughter.
At 78 years of age, Joan Van Ark continues to radiate a lively spirit. Here’s a look at her life journey and her surprising claim that she was responsible for the downfall of Knots Landing.
Born on June 16, 1943, in New York City, New York, Joan was one of four children to Dorothy Jean Van Ark and Carroll Van Ark. The family later relocated to Boulder, Colorado, when she was seven. This change in environment played a significant role later in her acting career.
Even though Joan’s parents didn’t work in the film industry—her mother was a writer, and her father was in public relations—Joan was determined to pursue acting from an early age. A pivotal moment in high school seemed to solidify her ambitions.
Early Ambitions and Opportunities
During an interview with We Love Soaps, Joan recalled how missing out on a prom invitation from the high school quarterback led her to audition for a local play. This decision marked a new chapter in her life. Joan didn’t get her desired role, but instead, she embraced the part of the flower girl, realizing her love for acting.
Her performance led to notable attention and praise, encouraging her decision to follow the path of acting over traditional pursuits.
While working on stage in Denver, Van Ark encountered Julie Harris, an actress who became a significant influence by encouraging her to enroll at the Yale Drama School.
Thanks to Harris’s support, Joan Van Ark became the youngest student to earn a scholarship at this esteemed school and only the second woman to enroll after Harris herself. This opened new doors and opportunities for her.
Valene Ewing on Dallas and Knots Landing
Joan started her professional acting journey at the Minneapolis Guthrie Theater in The Miser by Moliere. Following a stint at the Arena Stage in Washington DC, she joined the national touring company for Barefoot in the Park in 1963, which led to her Broadway debut. Her portrayal in The School for Wives in 1971 even earned her a Tony Award nomination.
Stepping onto the small screen, Joan appeared in various TV series, including roles in Temperature’s Rising, Spider-Woman, and Days of Our Lives. Yet, she yearned for a role that would establish her prominence in the industry.
Her pivotal breakthrough came in 1978 when she appeared as Valene Ewing on Dallas. This role became the defining moment of her career with the succeeding spin-off Knots Landing debuting in 1979, securing her fame.
Knots Landing, a spinoff focusing on Gary and Valene Ewing, allowed Joan to shine over 327 episodes, starring alongside talents like Michele Lee and Ted Schakleford. Though initially overlooked by networks, the show became a massive hit, thanks in part to the expanding fan base of Dallas.
A Role Almost Missed
The road to becoming Valene Ewing was not straightforward. Joan faced scheduling conflicts with other projects, including The Love Boat and a commercial in New York. However, her husband, John Marshall, persuaded her to prioritize the Dallas project, recognizing the show’s potential.
With his encouragement, Joan managed a hectic schedule, bouncing between locations but ultimately relishing in her role on Dallas and feeling grateful for the opportunity her husband insisted she shouldn’t miss.
This commitment to Dallas and Knots Landing spanned 15 years, integrating Joan’s professional and personal life, particularly with the irony of Julie Harris, a noted influence, cast as her on-screen mother.
An Emotional Departure
Joan adored her time on Knots Landing, remaining for 13 seasons and participating in countless memorable storylines. Nonetheless, in 1993, she departed one season before the show’s conclusion, not out of disillusionment, but from a longing to explore new artistic avenues.
However, leaving was bittersweet for Joan, acknowledging her close ties to the cast, like Ted Shackelford. The bonds forged on set were deep, reflecting personal experiences from marriages to tragedies shared among the cast.
Joan’s Reflections and Career Continuation
Despite leaving Knots Landing for new challenges, Joan felt responsible for its cancellation, believing her departure contributed to its downfall. She later attempted a return for the series finale to add closure.
Transitioning away from soap operas didn’t end Joan’s TV appearances, as she joined shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and The Young and The Restless. She embraced diverse roles, expanding her career beyond the confines of her past persona.
A Lasting Marriage
Unlike many Hollywood unions, Joan and John Marshall’s marriage has endured since they met during their school days in Boulder. The two wed in 1966, sharing a life together that spotlighted their love, even in the midst of showbiz’s typical upheavals.
The couple’s daughter, Vanessa Marshall, also pursued entertainment, carving out a niche as a prominent voice-over artist and appearing in numerous animated productions.
Joan credits John heavily, recognizing his family dedication and career sacrifices that provided stability, enabling her career continuity.
Joan Van Ark’s personal life reflects her devotion to her longstanding marriage and family, balancing career demands adeptly.
On Stage, On the Run, and On the Screen
Besides acting, Joan is passionate about running, finding joy and stress relief in marathons. Her athleticism serves as an alternative to traditional therapy, a testament to her enduring vitality.
In recent years, Van Ark has continued thriving in theater and films like Watercolor Postcards while remaining cherished for her iconic roles on Dallas and Knots Landing. Her varied and impressive career contributes to her substantial net worth, reportedly around $10 million.
What are your thoughts on Joan Van Ark’s contributions to television? Feel free to express your appreciation for her remarkable performances!
