Delta Burke, a vivacious and sharp-tongued American actress and comedienne, made quite the splash on primetime television throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Known for her sassy charm and quick wit, Delta brought to life memorable characters—often Southern belles with a flirtatious edge and a touch of attitude. One of her most iconic roles was on the hit CBS sitcom Designing Women (1986–91), where her wide-eyed expressions, rapid-fire delivery, and impeccable comic timing stole scenes week after week. As Suzanne Sugarbaker, Delta stood out among a group of strong, diverse female leads, showcasing both her comedic flair and dramatic depth.
Before fame found her on TV, Delta had even competed in the Miss America pageant, hinting early on at her confidence and stage presence. But while her talent was undeniable, Delta’s career also faced public scrutiny. Over the years, tabloids frequently covered her struggles with weight, highly publicized clashes with producers over creative differences, and her high-profile marriage to actor Gerald McRaney, known for his roles in Simon and Simon and Major Dad.
Despite these challenges, Delta continued striving for success. She took center stage in her own ABC series Delta (1992–93), playing a bubbly, bleached-blonde aspiring country singer who moves to Nashville—a role that, unfortunately, didn’t resonate with audiences. Later, she returned as Suzanne Sugarbaker in the spin-off Women of the House (CBS, 1995), but that too failed to capture the magic of the original. Still, Delta wasn’t ready to leave the small screen behind. She made a comeback of sorts playing the First Lady in the short-lived political comedy DAG (CBS, 2000–01). Through ups and downs, Delta Burke remained a distinctive voice in American television, leaving a lasting impression with her bold personality and undeniable comedic spark.
When it comes to Delta Burke’s film career, one standout performance definitely comes to mind—her highest rated movie is What Women Want from 2000. It’s clear that Delta Burke brought something special to that role, contributing to the film’s strong reception. On the other hand, looking at her filmography, the movie that didn’t quite resonate as well was Hansel & Gretel in 2002, which ended up being Delta Burke’s lowest rated film. While every actor has highs and lows, Delta Burke’s work across these years shows her range, even when the results varied. Still, fans of Delta Burke often point to What Women Want as a highlight in her career.