Audra Lindley, a highly respected actress with a career that spanned over five decades, became a household name thanks to her portrayal of the vivacious and humorous Helen Roper on the classic sitcom Three’s Company. As the free-spirited wife of Stanley Roper (played by Norman Fell), Lindley’s character brought warmth, comedic flair, and a refreshing touch of liberated femininity to the show. However, Lindley’s career was far more diverse than her iconic role as Mrs. Roper, as she had already established herself as a versatile actress in both dramatic and comedic roles before and after her sitcom success.
This article explores Audra Lindley’s life and career, tracing her journey from her early beginnings in Hollywood to her breakout role on Three’s Company and her enduring legacy as one of television’s most beloved character actresses.
Early Life and Hollywood Beginnings
Audra Marie Lindley was born on September 24, 1918, in Los Angeles, California, into a family deeply connected to the entertainment industry. Her father, Bert Lindley, was a well-known stage and film actor who worked in early Hollywood films during the silent era. Growing up in Los Angeles, Lindley was surrounded by show business, which fostered her love for acting from a young age. Inspired by her father’s career and her own desire to perform, Lindley knew early on that she wanted to become an actress.
After graduating from high school, Lindley wasted no time in pursuing her dream. She began her career at just 18 years old as a stand-in at Warner Bros. Studios. Her early years in Hollywood were spent working behind the scenes, learning the ins and outs of the industry. During this time, Lindley gained invaluable experience, understanding the technical aspects of film production, and building relationships that would help her transition into acting roles.
In the 1940s and 1950s, Lindley gradually made her way into television and theater, where she began to establish herself as a talented actress. She worked her way up by taking on small roles in television dramas, while simultaneously honing her craft in stage productions. Lindley’s ability to move seamlessly between television, film, and theater helped her develop into a well-rounded performer.
Early Television Success and Stage Career
Lindley’s first major television breakthrough came in the 1960s when she appeared in daytime soap operas, such as Search for Tomorrow and Another World. Her role as Liz Matthews on Another World gained her attention and showcased her talent in dramatic television. She became a familiar face to soap opera fans, solidifying her presence on daytime television for several years.
However, Lindley’s career was not limited to television dramas. She was equally at home on the stage, where she displayed her versatility as an actress. Lindley worked extensively in theater, appearing in Broadway productions such as On Golden Pond, Long Day’s Journey Into Night, and Horse Heavens. Her love for the stage never waned, and she often cited theater as her first love, even as she found greater fame on television later in her career. Lindley’s theater work allowed her to delve into complex and challenging roles, often showcasing her dramatic range in ways that sitcom audiences might not have expected.
Three’s Company: The Role of a Lifetime
In 1977, Audra Lindley landed the role that would forever cement her place in television history: Helen Roper on Three’s Company. The show, created by Don Nicholl, Michael Ross, and Bernie West, was based on the British series Man About the House and revolved around the comedic misadventures of three roommates—Jack Tripper (John Ritter), Janet Wood (Joyce DeWitt), and Chrissy Snow (Suzanne Somers)—living together in an apartment. Lindley’s character, Helen Roper, was the colorful, frustrated, and flirtatious wife of the trio’s landlord, Stanley Roper.
Helen Roper became an iconic figure on the show for her flamboyant wardrobe, which often consisted of brightly colored muumuus and oversized jewelry, as well as her humorous attempts to rekindle the romance in her seemingly loveless marriage with Stanley. While Stanley was uninterested in Helen’s romantic advances, preferring to spend his time grumbling about the tenants or watching TV, Helen’s playful and teasing nature brought a lighthearted dynamic to the show. Lindley’s portrayal of Helen made the character lovable and relatable to audiences, despite the ongoing comedic tension between her and her husband.
The chemistry between Lindley and Norman Fell, who played Stanley, was one of the highlights of Three’s Company. Their comedic timing and ability to play off each other’s quirks made the Ropers one of the most memorable sitcom couples of the era. Lindley’s portrayal of Helen was marked by a sense of fun and liberation, as her character frequently poked fun at Stanley’s prudishness while embracing her own more modern, free-spirited views.
Helen Roper was a trailblazing character in some ways, as she challenged the traditional portrayal of older women on television. While many female characters of her age were often depicted as conservative or sexless, Helen was bold, unapologetic, and eager to enjoy life on her own terms. Lindley brought a warmth and complexity to Helen, making her more than just a comedic foil to Stanley. The Ropers’ interactions with the younger, more carefree Jack, Janet, and Chrissy added another layer of humor to the show, with Helen often sympathizing with the younger characters’ more progressive views, much to Stanley’s chagrin.
Lindley’s performance as Helen Roper was so beloved that when Three’s Company became a hit, the network gave the Ropers their own spin-off show, The Ropers, in 1979. The show followed Stanley and Helen after they moved to a new apartment complex, where they continued their misadventures with new neighbors. While The Ropers initially drew strong ratings, the show was ultimately canceled after two seasons. Despite the short-lived nature of the spin-off, Lindley’s performance remained a standout, and her character continued to be cherished by fans of both shows.
Post-Three’s Company Career
After the cancellation of The Ropers, Audra Lindley continued to work steadily in television, film, and theater. Her versatility as an actress allowed her to take on a variety of roles in different genres. She appeared in television shows such as The Love Boat, Murder, She Wrote, and Cybill, as well as in films like Troop Beverly Hills (1989) and Desperately Seeking Susan (1985), where she played Madonna’s character’s mother.
Lindley’s career in theater also remained active, and she returned to Broadway and regional theaters to perform in productions that allowed her to display her dramatic range. Her work on the stage continued to earn her praise from critics and audiences alike, proving that she was more than just a comedic actress.
Personal Life and Legacy
Audra Lindley was married twice during her life. Her first marriage to actor Hardy Ulm ended in divorce, and her second marriage to actor James Whitmore also ended in divorce. Despite the challenges of her personal life, Lindley remained dedicated to her craft and maintained strong friendships with her colleagues in the entertainment industry.
Lindley passed away on October 16, 1997, at the age of 79 from complications related to leukemia. Her death marked the loss of one of Hollywood’s most beloved character actresses. However, her legacy continues to live on through her work, particularly her portrayal of Helen Roper, a character who remains iconic to this day.
Audra Lindley’s contribution to television as a comedic actress, particularly through her role on Three’s Company, has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Her ability to bring depth, humor, and humanity to her characters made her a standout in every role she played. Lindley’s career serves as a reminder of the importance of character actors in television and film, and her work continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.