Annabel Schofield, ‘Dallas’ Actress and ‘80s Fashion Icon, Dies at 62

Annabel Schofield, the Welsh-born model and actress who rose to fame as a defining face of 1980s London fashion and later starred opposite Larry Hagman on the popular primetime soap Dallas, has died at age 62 following a battle with cancer in Los Angeles on February 28. Born in Llanelli, Wales on September 4, 1963, Schofield carved out an impressive career that spanned decades and multiple industries, beginning with her striking presence on hundreds of magazine covers and major campaigns for prestigious brands like Yves Saint Laurent, Rimmel, Revlon and Boots No. 7. Her distinctive look and talent led her to become a fixture in London's vibrant fashion scene during the New Romantic era, working alongside designers like Vivienne Westwood and Katherine Hamnett, and becoming one of photographer David Bailey's favorite subjects. Schofield gained international recognition not only for her modeling work but also for a memorable Bugle Boy Jeans commercial where she drove through the desert in a black Ferrari asking, 'Excuse me, are those Bugle Boy jeans you're wearing?' After establishing herself as a top model, Schofield transitioned to acting, landing the role of Laurel Ellis in 12 episodes of Dallas, where she shared screen time with Larry Hagman's iconic J.R. Ewing character. Her film credits included roles in Solar Crisis opposite Charlton Heston and Eye of the Widow. Later in her career, Schofield moved behind the camera, establishing Burbank-based Bella Bene Productions in 2010 and serving as an executive producer on projects including The Brothers Grimm, Doom and City of Ember. She also collaborated with renowned directors and photographers, including Nick Egan, Andrew McPherson, Ellen von Unwerth, and Michael Muller, and produced the 3D Guerlain campaign featuring Angelina Jolie. In addition to her work in fashion, film, and television, Schofield penned the semi-autobiographical novel 'The Cherry Alignment,' inspired by her experiences as an 1980s actress and model, which she dedicated to her late friend and colleague Heath Ledger.