In 1987, the actress turned down a contract that would have made her the highest-paid actress on TV.
Here, Principal looks back on her turbulent last month on TV’s ratings powerhouse.
I informed the producers during renegotiations in the seventh year that I would only stay for two more.
Credit: CBS Photo Archive/Getty Images
They wanted a longer contract, and I said no.
I was completely transparent.
Since this had all been done two years prior, it was quite a surprise.
What they didn’t understand was how committed I was to leaving.
It was belated and somewhat insulting.
So my polite response was “I’m leaving.”
There was a lot of pressure.
At first it was flowers and notes.
There are moments in life when you discover your true character.
That night I slept like a baby, because I wasn’t for sale.
The last day I filmed, the scene didn’t involve any of my costars.
They were all gone.
Love, Victoria."
Afterward I flew to Texas for a charity event.
A new statement was reissued, but it was a bit like the tail wagging the dog.
I learned a lot from playing Pam.
She was someone with such innate goodness and who was courageous in fighting for what she believed in.
It was really a privilege to play her.
