She Was Known for This One Thing, Yet She Disappeared from Screens – What Happened?

Before landing her first major screen role, she spent years performing in classic stage productions. At the peak of her success, a sudden dismissal from a high-profile role disrupted her career. When she later returned to the spotlight, it revealed just how much — and how little — had truly changed.

She emerged as a rising star during television’s golden era, securing roles in some of the most popular series of the 1970s and 1980s. Audiences quickly took notice — not only because of her acting talent, but because there was something about her appearance that was impossible to ignore.

The actress poses for a portrait, circa 1978 | Source: Getty Images

But just as her career gained momentum, an unexpected casting decision changed everything. For years, she disappeared from screens and headlines, leaving fans wondering what had caused such a promising journey to stall. The reasons were tied to both industry decisions and personal choices.

The actress photographed in 1982 | Source: Getty Images

Early Life and Training in the Craft

Long before she stepped into Hollywood’s spotlight, her path to acting was already taking shape. Born on May 10, 1948, in Reading, Pennsylvania, she was one of five siblings raised in Rowayton, Connecticut. From an early age, she showed a deep interest in the arts — a passion that would later define her career.

Determined to refine her talent, she pursued formal training in New York City at the renowned Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre. There, she studied under acclaimed acting teacher Sanford Meisner, whose methods shaped some of the most respected actors in the industry.

The actress as D.A. Deb Grant in “The Trial of Rosie O’Neill,” 1990 | Source: Getty Images

Her early stage credits included roles such as Miss Hardcastle in She Stoops to Conquer, Feeney Evans in Bernard Shaw’s The Shewing Up of Blanco Posnet, and The Blonde in Between Two Thieves. These performances helped build a strong foundation for what lay ahead.

In 1969, she transitioned to screen work with an appearance in NET Playhouse, marking the beginning of her on-screen career. From there, she steadily gained experience through guest roles that increased her visibility.

Gaining Momentum on TV

During the 1970s, she built a solid television résumé, appearing in well-known series such as Barnaby Jones, The Six Million Dollar Man, and Hawaii Five-O. Her screen presence and versatility quickly stood out.

In 1979, she took on a pivotal role as Hester Prynne in the miniseries The Scarlet Letter. Portraying a woman caught between forbidden love and social judgment, she delivered a performance that earned critical attention and marked a turning point in her career.

Reflecting on that time, she once admitted, “I couldn’t get a job… I needed creative nourishment.” After 16 months without work, the role became a much-needed breakthrough.

At the same time, she struggled with self-image, openly sharing insecurities about her appearance. Still, she reminded herself: “I am the only Meg. I have something different to offer.”

Breakthrough Role and the Eyes Everyone Remembered

By the early 1980s, her distinct look and growing credits attracted major attention. One of her biggest opportunities came when CBS cast her as Christine Cagney in Cagney & Lacey.

It seemed like a defining moment — until she was suddenly replaced. The network offered little explanation at first, leading to speculation and rumors that impacted her reputation and slowed her career.

Eventually, CBS stated they wanted to “rebalance” the show. After that clarification, she began receiving offers again, including a role in Desperate Intruder.

Despite the setback, one thing remained undeniable: her striking blue eyes. They became her signature, even earning the nickname “the eyes of ’79.”

Some producers considered them distracting, but she viewed them differently:
“I don’t look at my eyes — I see through them.”

Film Roles and Career Reinvention

After leaving Cagney & Lacey, she shifted her focus to film. In 1987, she played Evil-Lyn in Masters of the Universe, a role that later gained cult status.

She followed with a memorable performance in They Live (1988), where she played Holly — a character that added depth to the film’s social commentary.

Her career continued through roles in Stepfather II and Blind Fury, proving her ability to move between genres with ease.

Throughout the 1990s, she remained active on television, appearing in series such as ER, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Quantum Leap, and Murder, She Wrote.

Life Beyond the Spotlight

Away from Hollywood, her life took on a quieter, more grounded rhythm. She was married to actor Stephen McHattie, and together they raised their son in suburban Los Angeles.

Her daily life revolved around simple routines — cooking meals, spending time with family, and maintaining a connection with nature.

She often emphasized perspective over fame, saying that staying grounded was essential in an industry where values can easily be lost.

Her reflections on motherhood were equally honest. She once shared an emotional moment with her son, who reminded her: “Nobody’s perfect, Mommy.”

A Lasting Legacy in Hollywood

Although her appearances became less frequent after the late 1990s, she never fully stepped away from acting. Since 2011, she has continued to take on select roles.

Fans continue to admire her natural beauty and authenticity. Many praise her for aging gracefully without relying on cosmetic enhancements, calling her a rare example of genuine Hollywood elegance.

Her eyes — once debated, admired, and even criticized — remain one of her most iconic features.

Today, her legacy is defined not just by her performances, but by her resilience, individuality, and refusal to conform.

For audiences, she remains unforgettable — a presence that stood out then and still stands out now.