When people look back at television history, few partnerships mirror the rugged grit of the National Football League combined with classic Hollywood drama quite like Alex Karras and Susan Clark. Spanning 32 years of marriage until his death in 2012, their bond connected the worlds of professional sports, film, and television. Many fans remember them best as George and Katherine Papadopolis on the hit 1980s sitcom Webster, but their journey started long before they stepped onto a studio lot together.
Before he became a beloved television fixture, Alex Karras built a formidable reputation on the football gridiron. Drafted tenth overall by the Detroit Lions in the 1958 NFL Draft, the defensive tackle earned All-Pro honors multiple times and secured a spot on the NFL 1960s All-Decade Team. Meanwhile, Canadian-born actress Susan Clark built an impressive resume in cinema and television, winning an Emmy Award for her portrayal of athlete Babe Didrikson Zaharias in the 1975 television film Babe. That production changed both of their lives forever.
From the Gridiron to Hollywood
Transitioning from professional sports into entertainment isn't easy, but Alex Karras made it look natural. After his retirement from football, he pursued acting with the same intensity he brought to rushing quarterbacks. When he landed a role in the television biopic Babe, he met Susan Clark, who starred as the titular athlete. Karras played her husband, professional wrestler George Zaharias. Chemistry on screen translated immediately into a real-life connection.
Their romance blossomed away from the cameras, leading to their marriage in 1980. They didn't just share a home; they forged a professional partnership through their production company, Georgian Bay Entertainment. In an era where athletes rarely found sustained success in acting, Karras carved out a distinct niche, appearing in films like Blazing Saddles and Porky's while establishing himself as a reliable comedic and dramatic presence. For broader context on the matter, comprehensive reporting can also be found at The New York Times.
The Webster Era
The pinnacle of their shared professional journey arrived in 1983 with the debut of the ABC sitcom Webster. The show centered on a retired NFL player and his sophisticated wife who adopt the young son of a former teammate who passed away. Producers cast Susan Clark as Katherine Papadopolis and Alex Karras as George Papadopolis, utilizing their genuine real-life marriage to ground the sitcom's emotional core.
Running for six seasons across 150 episodes, the series relied heavily on the natural banter between the leads. While young star Emmanuel Lewis carried much of the physical comedy, the steady presence of Clark and Karras kept the show grounded. Clark earned a Golden Globe nomination in 1985 for her work on the series, proving her comedic timing matched her dramatic chops.
Running a television show alongside your spouse comes with distinct hurdles. Balancing long production days with family life requires immense patience. They managed to protect their private life while working together intensely, a rare feat in the entertainment industry.
Life After the Cameras Stopped
Production on Webster wrapped in 1989, marking the close of a defining chapter for the couple. While Karras scaled back his acting work in the following decades, Clark continued to take on select stage and television roles, including appearances in productions at the Manitoba Theatre Centre.
Their marriage endured for over three decades, weathering the health challenges that often accompany aging former athletes. Karras faced significant medical issues later in life, stemming from the physical toll of his football career. When he passed away in October 2012, Susan Clark honored a legacy defined by mutual respect, shared creative ventures, and a partnership that survived the intense glare of public fame.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Alex Karras and Susan Clark meet on the set of Webster?
No. They met years earlier while filming the 1975 television movie Babe, where they also played husband and wife. They married five years later in 1980.
How long were Alex Karras and Susan Clark married?
They were married for 32 years, from their wedding in March 1980 until Alex Karras passed away on October 10, 2012.
What position did Alex Karras play in the NFL?
He played as a defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions from 1958 to 1970, earning selection to four Pro Bowls and the NFL 1960s All-Decade Team.
Did they have children together?
Yes, they welcomed a daughter named Katie in 1980, shortly after they were married.
