We are saddened to learn that regular SAGWatch and SAG-AFTRAWatch contributor Kathy Joosten passed away earlier today.
Known most recently for her role as Karen McCluskey on “Desperate Housewives,” for which she received two Emmy awards, Ms. Joosten’s career included roles on “Dharma and Greg,” “My Name is Earl,” “Ally McBeal” among many others, and she was well-known for her role as Mrs. Landingham, the president of the United States’ secretary, on “The West Wing.”
In addition to being a talented actor, she was a forceful and articulate, yet always gracious, commenter here, and will be greatly missed.
Coverage from E! Online, USA Today, Reuters, Los Angeles Times.
I was saddened to hear this news. Not only has she bee na recent poster here, she and I had frequent contact about issues of the union. She began her career later in life and did very well. Tough lady, solid and thoughtful.
I had the great fortune of knowing Kathy a little in real life. Over the years I had clients on both WW and DH and it was always a hoot to have lunch with her, and run into her at industry events. She was salty, smart, and didn’t take shit from anyone.
At an ABC event 2 years ago, shortly after she was diagnosed, we had a really good laugh at our “ALL CAPS” friend’s expense. Her comment was all Kathy!
This news saddened me much more than the usual show biz passing.
Her wit, her barbs, her inquiring mind, her uncensored mouth and that impish twinkle in her eye will all be very sorely missed.
Unfortunately, I never met her, but I was always eager to read what she had written here and of course, her work was awesome. Hell, she was awesome.
One of a kind, she is missed.
I am so shocked and saddened at her passing. She stood up to bullies, she stood up for her union and always with a fair and decent style. She will be missed.
God Bless you Kathy.
After a recent post of hers, I really wanted to let her know that she made me cry with that last episode of DH, but I thought it would be weird. Now, I wonder if I should have commited the threadjacking anyway.
Her posts were always succinct, witty and on-topic. I will miss her presence, here, and on screen.
Good journey, Kathy.
she was a great actor yet her information of the future union was off…
may she make her last audition……