Jenilee Harrison is a name that certainly rings a bell for fans of classic television. Best known for her standout performances on popular shows like “Three’s Company” and the long-running soap drama “Dallas,” Jenilee Harrison carved out a memorable place in TV history. Before she became a household name, she was making appearances on the sidelines—literally. She attended the University of Southern California and spent two years as a Rams cheerleader, which actually led to her first onscreen role.
It all started when she appeared as a Rams cheerleader in an episode of the series “ChiPs.” That small part opened doors, and soon after, Jenilee Harrison landed her big break: stepping into the role originally held by Suzanne Sommers on the hit sitcom “Three’s Company,” starring alongside John Ritter. The move brought her into the spotlight and solidified her status as a rising star.
In 1984, Jenilee Harrison took on another major role, joining the cast of “Dallas” as Jamie Ewing Barnes. Her portrayal spanned 70 episodes over two years, with her character becoming a notable presence on the show. Interestingly—and perhaps oddly—her character was written off the series twice during her tenure. Despite the dramatic exits, Jenilee Harrison remained a fan favorite throughout her time on the show.
Beyond her television success, Jenilee Harrison also made her mark on the big screen. She delivered a compelling performance as a reluctant prostitute in the film “Tank,” sharing the screen with veterans James Garner and C. Thomas Howell. Her versatility shone through in guest appearances on beloved series such as “Fantasy Island,” “The Love Boat,” “Murder, She Wrote,” and even the quirky sci-fi show “They Came from Outer Space.”
Later in her career, Jenilee Harrison made a fun cameo on “That ‘70s Show” in 1999, proving her enduring appeal across generations of viewers. On a more personal note, she was married to Bruce Oppenheim—the ex-husband of actress Cybill Shepherd—from 1993 until 2022, marking a long-lasting chapter in her life away from the cameras.
Through the years, Jenilee Harrison has remained a familiar and respected figure in entertainment, with each role adding depth to her legacy. Whether it was comedy, drama, or action, Jenilee Harrison brought authenticity and charm to every project she touched.
Well, when it comes to Jenilee Harrison’s filmography, there’s one title that really stands out—Jenilee Harrison’s most acclaimed work is Tank (1984). Interestingly enough, and quite uniquely, the same movie also happens to be her lowest rated project. Yeah, you heard that right—Jenilee Harrison’s highest rated movie is Tank (1984), and believe it or not, that very same film is also considered her lowest rated. So, whether critics loved it or weren’t too impressed, one thing’s for sure: Tank (1984) definitely left a mark in Jenilee Harrison’s career. It’s kind of ironic when you think about it—Jenilee Harrison puts her name on a film that ends up being both the peak and the low point, all in one.