Delta Burke rose to fame for her role as Suzanne Sugarbaker in “Designing Women.” However, she did not enjoy her time in Hollywood. Later she realized that the value of her role lay not in the accolades or fame, but in the personal connections she forged. The most notable connection was with her husband, Gerald McRaney.
Delta Burke and Gerald McRaney at the 47th Annual Golden Apple Awards in Beverly Hills | Source: Getty Images
Reflecting on both the good and bad times, Burke shared, “Whatever went down that was bad, it was worth because I met him. [sic]” While on “Designing Women” Burke earned critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Her character, strong, outspoken, and unapologetically feminine, became an iconic representation of Southern charm mixed with fierce independence.
Delta Burke as Suzanne Sugarbaker on “Designing Women” in 1990 | Source: Getty Images
However, the glitz and glamour of television came with its own set of challenges. The competitive nature of show business, coupled with intense public scrutiny, gradually sapped her enthusiasm. Burke openly discussed these difficulties, describing the set as a “difficult, unpleasant workplace.”