Lydia Cornell is an American actress best known for her role in the ABC sitcom "Too Close for Comfort." With a career spanning several decades in entertainment, Cornell has established herself as a versatile performer in television and film.
Biography Details
| Full Name | Lydia Cornell |
|---|---|
| Profession | TV Actress |
| Age (2025) | 71 years |
| Birthday | July 23, 1953 |
| Birth Sign | Leo |
| Birthplace | El Paso, Texas |
| Nationality | American |
| Net Worth (2025) | $1.2 million (estimated) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Height | 5'7" (170 cm) (estimated) |
Early Life & Background
Lydia Cornell was born on July 23, 1953, in El Paso, Texas. She comes from a family with rich cultural heritage—her mother, Irma Jean Stowe, was a concert violinist, and both of her siblings pursued careers in music. Perhaps most notably, she is the great-great-granddaughter of famous American author and abolitionist Harriet Beecher Stowe, who wrote "Uncle Tom's Cabin."
Growing up between Texas and New York, Cornell developed diverse perspectives that would later influence her acting career. Her education took place at the University of Colorado, where she studied business, advertising, English, and drama, building a foundation for her future in entertainment.
Career Journey
Cornell's breakthrough came with her role as Sara Rush in the popular ABC sitcom "Too Close for Comfort," which aired from 1980 to 1987. The show catapulted her to national recognition and established her as a household name in American television.
Beyond her signature role, Cornell expanded her television presence with guest appearances on iconic shows of the era, including "The Love Boat" and "Charlie's Angels." These appearances further cemented her status in the entertainment industry during the golden age of network television.
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Acting Career & Achievements
In addition to her television work, Cornell ventured into film with roles such as her appearance in the 1982 horror-suspense movie "Blood Tide." While primarily known for her television work, these film projects demonstrated her range as an actress beyond the sitcom format.
Throughout her career, Cornell has shown versatility by taking on various characters across different genres, from comedy to drama and suspense. Her ability to adapt to different roles has been a hallmark of her longevity in the entertainment industry.
Personal Life
Cornell's personal life has seen both stability and change over the years. She was married to Paul Hayeland from 2002 until their divorce in 2010, a relationship that lasted eight years. Details about children from this marriage remain private, as Cornell has generally kept her family life away from the public spotlight.
Her family background, with ties to Harriet Beecher Stowe, reflects a heritage connected to American literary history and social activism. This connection to historical figures may have influenced Cornell's own perspectives and choices throughout her life and career.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Lydia Cornell's estimated net worth stands at approximately $1.2 million. This wealth has been accumulated primarily through her acting career, including earnings from television royalties, film work, and possibly other entertainment-related ventures.
While not among Hollywood's wealthiest actresses, Cornell has maintained financial stability throughout her career, reflecting the sustainable success she achieved during her peak years in television.
Physical Attributes
Cornell stands at approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall. During her acting prime, she was known for her blonde hair and expressive features, which contributed to her on-screen presence and appeal during the 1980s television era.
Notable Facts & Trivia
One of the most interesting facts about Cornell is her lineage—being the great-great-granddaughter of Harriet Beecher Stowe connects her to an important figure in American literary and political history. This family connection bridges entertainment and historical social activism in a unique way.
Cornell's appearance in "Blood Tide," a cult horror film, represents an interesting deviation from her primarily comedic television work and shows her willingness to explore different genres as an actress.
Legacy
Today, Lydia Cornell is remembered primarily for her contribution to American television comedy through "Too Close for Comfort." While she may not have achieved the sustained spotlight of some of her contemporaries, her work remains a beloved part of 1980s television history.
FAQ
What is Lydia Cornell most famous for?
Lydia Cornell is most famous for playing Sara Rush in the ABC sitcom "Too Close for Comfort" during the 1980s.
Is Lydia Cornell related to any historical figures?
Yes, she is the great-great-granddaughter of Harriet Beecher Stowe, the famous American author who wrote "Uncle Tom's Cabin."
What did Lydia Cornell study in college?
She studied business, advertising, English, and drama at the University of Colorado.
What other TV shows did Lydia Cornell appear in?
Beyond "Too Close for Comfort," she made appearances on shows like "The Love Boat" and "Charlie's Angels."
Is Lydia Cornell currently married?
No, she was married to Paul Hayeland from 2002 to 2010 but is currently divorced.