Connie Needham is an American actress who rose to fame for her role as Elizabeth Bradford on the popular ABC comedy-drama series Eight is Enough, which aired from 1977 to 1981. Her portrayal of one of the Bradford daughters made her a recognizable face in American households during the late 1970s.
Biography Table
| Full Name | Connie Needham (née Newton) |
|---|---|
| Profession | TV Actress |
| Age (2025) | 65 years |
| Date of Birth | December 5, 1959 |
| Birthplace | Anaheim, California, USA |
| Zodiac Sign | Sagittarius |
| Nationality | American |
| Net Worth (2025) | $1.5 million |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband | David Needham |
| Height | 5’6" (168 cm) |
Early Life & Background
Connie Needham was born as Connie Newton on December 5, 1959, in Anaheim, California. Growing up in Southern California provided her with proximity to the entertainment industry, though she didn’t initially set out to become an actress.
Her early passion was ballet, and she trained extensively in dance during her formative years. This training would later prove valuable when she transitioned into acting. Details about her early education aren’t widely documented, but her ballet background suggests a disciplined upbringing focused on the performing arts.
Career Journey
Connie’s entry into the entertainment industry was somewhat serendipitous. Her debut role came with Eight is Enough, which would ultimately become her most recognized work. Without previous acting credits, she was cast as Elizabeth Bradford, one of the eight children in the Bradford family that was the focus of the series.
The show ran for four seasons from 1977 to 1981, covering 112 episodes. Connie appeared throughout the entire run of the series, allowing viewers to watch her character evolve from a teenager into a young adult. The family-oriented show became a staple of American television during its time on air.
After Eight is Enough concluded, Connie appeared in Leslie Nielsen’s comedy series Police Squad! This short-lived but critically acclaimed show added another notable credit to her resume, though it didn’t match the longevity of her previous work.
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Television Legacy
While Connie’s filmography isn’t as extensive as some of her contemporaries, her contribution to television in the late 1970s and early 1980s was significant. Eight is Enough was considered groundbreaking in its time for its portrayal of a blended family dealing with realistic issues while maintaining its comedic elements.
The show’s cultural impact has endured, with many people who grew up during that era remembering the Bradford family fondly. As Elizabeth Bradford, Connie portrayed a relatable teenager navigating the challenges of adolescence, making her character resonant with many viewers.
Personal Life
Connie’s personal life intertwined with her professional world when she met David Needham, who worked as a set designer on Eight is Enough. Their workplace romance blossomed into a serious relationship, and the couple eventually married.
Together, Connie and David have two children. After her acting career slowed down, Connie focused more on family life and other interests. Unlike many former child and teen actors, she has maintained a relatively low profile in the decades following her television fame.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Connie Needham’s estimated net worth is approximately $1.5 million. While not as substantial as some Hollywood fortunes, this represents the financial stability she has maintained since her acting days.
Her wealth stems primarily from her work on Eight is Enough, residuals from reruns, and possible investments or other business ventures she may have pursued after stepping back from acting. She has managed her finances well enough to maintain a comfortable lifestyle decades after her main source of fame.
Physical Attributes
Connie stands at approximately 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) tall. During her acting career, she was known for her warm smile and expressive eyes. Her ballet training gave her a graceful presence on screen, which complemented her acting abilities.
Notable Facts & Trivia
- Ballet Background: Before acting, Connie trained extensively in ballet, which helped inform her physical presence on screen
- She appeared in all 112 episodes of Eight is Enough from 1977 to 1981
- On-Set Romance: She met her husband David Needham while working on Eight is Enough where he was a set designer
- Co-Star Connection: Interestingly, Connie dated her on-screen brother Willie Aames (who played Tommy Bradford) for a period off-screen
- After acting, Connie reportedly became a dance instructor, returning to her first passion
Life After Fame
Following her television career, Connie largely stepped away from the public spotlight. She reportedly returned to her first love of dance, working as a dance instructor. This career choice allowed her to utilize her ballet training and share her passion with new generations of dancers.
In 2009, Connie faced a personal health challenge when she was diagnosed with cancer. She underwent treatment and has since recovered, occasionally appearing at reunion events with her former Eight is Enough castmates.
FAQ
Q: What did Connie Needham do after Eight is Enough?
A: After her acting career, Connie reportedly became a dance instructor, drawing on her ballet background.
Q: Did Connie Needham appear in any other major TV shows besides Eight is Enough?
A: She appeared in Leslie Nielsen’s Police Squad! series, though it was short-lived compared to Eight is Enough.
Q: Is Connie Needham still married to David Needham?
A: Based on available information, yes, she remains married to David Needham, whom she met while working on Eight is Enough.
Q: How many children does Connie Needham have?
A: Connie and David Needham have two children together.
Q: Has Connie Needham participated in any Eight is Enough reunions?
A: Yes, she has occasionally appeared at cast reunions and retrospective events for the show.