"Knots Landing" - "Flight of the Sunbirds" - November 19, 1987

 

"Knots Landing" featured a variety of wonderfully talented performers and some captivating storylines.  One of my favorite characters, if not my favorite character, was Lilimae Clements played by the late, great Julie Harris (1925-2013).  Lilimae was the mother of Valene Ewing (Joan Van Ark) and appeared in one episode in 1980 and then was a regular cast member from 1981 to 1987.  She was featured in several really terrific storylines and added a lot of warmth to the show.  Unfortunately, due to budget cuts, Ms. Harris was released from the show in 1987.  In the script, Lilimae met and fell in love with Al Baker (Red Buttons) and left town to travel around the country with him.  Her final appearance on the show was on this day thirty-four years ago.  The character of Lilimae would be mentioned in future episodes but did not appear again after 11/19/1987.