There’s something timeless about Gilmore Girls — and about the actors who brought Stars Hollow to life. But recently, one of its most beloved stars revealed a surprising struggle: convincing fans that she’s not retired.
Even decades after Gilmore Girls first premiered, the show’s magic continues to thrive on streaming platforms and social media. Yet, for one of its standout cast members, that enduring fame comes with a funny — and slightly frustrating — misunderstanding. Let’s dive into the truth behind the rumors and why this beloved actress isn’t done performing just yet.
The Actress Behind the Headlines
Sally Struthers — Still Going Strong
Yes, you read that right — we’re talking about Sally Struthers, the actress who brought the quirky and lovable Babette Dell to life on Gilmore Girls. While many fans fondly remember her from All in the Family and Gilmore Girls, some have assumed she’s retired from acting.
But Sally herself is setting the record straight — she’s very much still working, and she’s not happy when people suggest otherwise.
“I Argue With Them All the Time” — Sally’s Honest Confession
In a recent interview, Struthers laughed while describing encounters with fans who think her career is over.
“People come up to me and say, ‘Oh, I miss seeing you on TV! It’s too bad you retired,’” she shared. “And I always say, ‘Wait a minute! I’m not retired — I work constantly!’”
Her response is equal parts humorous and fiery — classic Sally. She’s been performing nonstop in theater productions across the country, lending her unmistakable voice to animation, and making special appearances on television.
The Myth of Retirement — Why Fans Got It Wrong
The Power of Nostalgia and Streaming
Thanks to streaming services like Netflix, Gilmore Girls feels forever current. But when fans binge-watch the show and see familiar faces like Babette, they often assume the actors have since stepped away from Hollywood.
In reality, Struthers has stayed active in entertainment — just not always in front of the camera. She’s been dedicating much of her time to live theater, a passion she’s carried throughout her career.
Out of Sight, Not Out of the Game
The lack of big-screen exposure doesn’t mean retirement — it just means a different spotlight. Theater work doesn’t always get the same attention as television, but for Sally, it’s where her heart truly shines.
“I do shows year-round,” she explained. “Musicals, comedies, dramas — I’ve never stopped. People just don’t always see it.”
Sally Struthers’ Endless Love for Acting
From TV Comedy to Live Theater
Sally’s passion for performing began long before All in the Family. After breaking out as Gloria Stivic in the ’70s, she built a reputation as one of television’s most dynamic comedic talents. Yet even with fame and accolades, the stage always called her back.
“There’s nothing like hearing an audience laugh in real-time,” she said. “It’s immediate, it’s alive, and it keeps me young.”
Her Secret to Staying Energized
Unlike many actors who slow down later in life, Struthers thrives on the hustle. Whether she’s performing in Hello, Dolly! or touring regional theaters, she says her work keeps her sharp and fulfilled.
The “Retirement” Rumor Mill in Hollywood
Why Audiences Jump to Conclusions
It’s not unusual for fans to assume that actors vanish when they’re no longer on primetime TV. The entertainment industry is driven by visibility, and once an actor’s most famous show wraps up, people often forget the world of work that continues behind the scenes.
Struthers finds it funny — but also a little frustrating.
“Just because you don’t see someone on Netflix every week doesn’t mean they’re gone!” she joked.
The Challenge of Staying Seen
While streaming has revived older shows, it can also create a false sense of time. Fans rewatch Gilmore Girls and All in the Family, but the actors have moved on, aging gracefully and taking on new roles. That disconnect fuels the “retirement” myth.
Sally Struthers’ Connection to Her Fans
Still the Same Warm Personality
Despite the misunderstandings, Struthers has nothing but love for her fans. She’s known for taking time to chat, pose for photos, and share stories. Her signature laugh and open-hearted nature have made her a fan favorite for generations.
How “Babette” Keeps Her Alive Online
TikTok and Instagram have introduced Sally to a whole new audience. Clips of Babette’s funniest lines are going viral, and Gen Z fans are discovering her all over again. Some even express shock when they learn she’s still acting — to which Sally playfully responds, “Of course I am!”
A Lifetime of Achievement
From “All in the Family” to “Gilmore Girls”
Struthers’ career is a masterclass in longevity. From her Emmy-winning turn as Gloria Stivic to her unforgettable Gilmore Girls role, she’s shown an unmatched ability to adapt and reinvent herself.
Few actors can claim to have connected with three different generations of TV fans — but Sally can.
The Stage Is Her Home
In recent years, she’s performed in dozens of regional and national theater productions. From Annie to The Odd Couple, she continues to bring her comedic genius to audiences live and in person.
“When I’m on stage,” she said, “I feel alive. That’s where I belong.”
Why Sally Struthers Refuses to Slow Down
“As Long as I Can Move, I’ll Perform”
Sally has no plans to step away from the spotlight. She’s open about her love for the craft and the community it brings.
“I’ll stop acting when I physically can’t anymore,” she quipped. “Until then, I’m just getting started.”
Her Message to Fans
Her message to those who think she’s retired? Simple and heartfelt: “Come see me on stage. You’ll see I’m still doing what I love.”
The Secret Behind Her Longevity
Passion, Positivity, and Humor
If there’s one secret to Sally’s decades-long success, it’s her joyful spirit. She approaches life — and work — with humor and grace. Even when correcting fans, she does it with a smile.
“I don’t get mad,” she laughed. “I just set the record straight — politely, of course!”
Reinventing Herself Over the Decades
From the feminist energy of All in the Family to the cozy small-town charm of Gilmore Girls, Sally has always found new ways to stay relevant. Her willingness to evolve keeps her connected to audiences both old and new.
Sally Struthers in the Modern Age
Her Ongoing Influence
Sally’s humor and warmth continue to inspire younger performers. Many up-and-coming actors credit her for proving that talent and authenticity never go out of style.
The Joy of Being Recognized — Even for the Wrong Reason
Despite the mix-ups about her “retirement,” Sally enjoys the attention. It means people still care — and that’s something every actor cherishes.
“If people remember you enough to ask where you went,” she said, “that’s a compliment in itself.”
Conclusion: The Star Who Never Stopped Shining
Sally Struthers may have played some unforgettable characters, but off-screen, she’s just as vibrant, funny, and full of life as ever. She’s not retired — not even close. Whether she’s lighting up a theater stage or trending online, Sally continues to prove that passion doesn’t fade with time.
Her story is a reminder to never underestimate the quiet work happening beyond the spotlight — because real artists never stop creating. And Sally Struthers? She’s living proof that some stars don’t fade — they just keep shining brighter.
