Actress Annabel Schofield, known for 'Dallas' role, dies at 62

Schofield's career spanned modeling, acting, and producing, reflecting industry shifts

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Annabel Schofield, best known for her role as Laurel Ellis in the hit 1980s television series Dallas, has died at the age of 62. Her career trajectory exemplified the rise of supermodel-actresses and the increasing trend of actors transitioning to producing roles in Hollywood.

Why it matters

Schofield's journey from acclaimed fashion model to dramatic actress on a popular prime-time soap opera, and then to producer, reflects broader changes in the entertainment industry. Her story highlights how actors are leveraging their industry knowledge and creative vision to take more control over projects.

The details

Schofield's initial fame came from her work as a fashion model, gracing the covers of magazines like Italian Vogue and appearing in campaigns for major brands. Her breakthrough acting role was in a memorable Bugle Boy Jeans commercial. She then joined the cast of Dallas in 1988, playing the character of Laurel Ellis. After her time on the show, Schofield transitioned to producing, working on independent films like The Brothers Grimm and City of Ember.

  • Schofield joined the cast of Dallas in 1988.
  • Schofield died at the age of 62 in 2026.

The players

Annabel Schofield

A British actress and former fashion model best known for her role as Laurel Ellis on the hit 1980s television series Dallas.

Larry Hagman

An American actor who played the iconic character of J.R. Ewing on the television series Dallas.

Melissa Richardson

The former owner of London's Take Two Agency, who described Schofield as "funny and real and gorgeous and down to earth."

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What they’re saying

“Funny and real and gorgeous and down to earth”

— Melissa Richardson, Former owner of Take Two Agency (newsy-today.com)

The takeaway

Schofield's career trajectory, from acclaimed fashion model to dramatic actress and then producer, exemplifies the increasing trend of actors taking more control over their careers and the creative process in the entertainment industry.