Discover Donna Mills’ most unforgettable life moment as she reflects on a cherished memory. Read about her touching experience that left a lasting impact. Don’t miss this heartwarming story!
A rare sight can be seen in the hills of Los Angeles: grapes in the middle of a residential neighbourhood. Mandeville Vineyards is located in Donna Mills’ backyard.
Mills began this agricultural enterprise a decade ago with her partner Larry Gilman, planting grapes that would eventually create their characteristic malbec and cabernet sauvignon wines. Mills finds satisfaction in this amazing endeavour as he embraces the role of a farmer.
“We’re farmers,” remarked Mills. “And to be a farmer is kind of fun.”
Donna Mills’ most unforgettable life moment
Donna Mills presently shines as one of the cast in the Lifetime series “Dawn,” based from V.C. Andrews’ novel. Mills enjoys the part of Lillian, a malicious grandma with a mile-long mean streak, characterising it as the most horrible she’s ever acted. It provides her great delight and satisfaction to play this evil persona.
When asked how she feels, Mills said, “Good.” I know! It’s so much fun to play the evil character, it really is.”
From Midwest Girl to Hollywood Star: Donna Mills’ Journey to Success
Donna Mills, an ambitious dancer from Chicago, rose to popularity on the stage and in famous soap operas such as “The Secret Storm” and “Love Is a Many Splendored Thing.” She relished the limelight, making guest appearances on primetime programmes such as the short-lived police series “Dan August” opposite Burt Reynolds.
Clint Eastwood personally sought her out for a part in a movie, which altered everything. Donna was taken aback when she realised that Burt Reynolds had suggested her when they met at a pub. Donna Mills’ journey from Midwestern roots to rubbing elbows with Hollywood’s elite is a wonderful tribute to the enchantment of entertainment.
Donna Mills: From Typecasting to Motherhood and Beyond
Donna Mills’ journey in Hollywood took a turn after her well-received performance in “Play Misty for Me” (1971), as she found herself typecast as a damsel-in-distress. However, her breakthrough came when she landed the role of the ruthless and husband-stealing Abby Cunningham on “Knots Landing,” making her both famous and infamous. Despite her success on screen, Mills felt something was missing in her life.
“I had had a hit series, I had my own production company, I was doing all this stuff, and I said to myself, Well, this is great. I’ve achieved almost everything that I’ve wanted to in my career. What about my life? How does that look to me? Do I wanna go through life without knowing what it’s like to be a mother, which is the most important thing in the world? No. I want that in my life.”
At 54 and single, she decided to adopt a daughter named Chloe, which she describes as the best moment of her entire life. Donna put her career on hold for 18 years to become a full-time mom, raising Chloe with joy and fulfillment.
“And by that time, it was kind of past the time when I was gonna be able to have a baby. So I thought, I’ll adopt. And that’s probably what I feel is my greatest joy.”
As Chloe grew older and left for college, Mills resumed her acting career, facing challenges with casting directors who were unfamiliar with her work. Nevertheless, she persevered, landing roles such as an Emmy-winning guest appearance on “General Hospital” and even a part in Jordan Peele’s acclaimed horror film “Nope.” Now 82, Donna Mills remains as vibrant as ever, refusing to retire and embracing life’s last chapter with gusto.
She values staying active and being available for roles, humorously noting that there will always be a need for someone to play the grandmother. Donna’s inspiring journey reminds us to cherish every moment and make the most of life’s extended cycle. Her determination and passion continue to shine, making her an enduring presence in the entertainment industry.