This article was originally published at lizanest.com.
When The Mary Tyler Moore Show debuted in 1970, it redefined television. Centered on an independent single woman navigating a bustling newsroom, it became a cultural touchstone, blending sharp comedy with heartfelt humanity. Its ensemble cast created unforgettable characters who still resonate today. More than five decades later, the actors who brought them to life have followed strikingly different paths—some found lasting fame, others stepped away from the spotlight. Here’s a look at 20 central cast members, then and now, and the legacies they left behind.