Acting Career and Breakthrough on "Dallas"

In 1970, Principal moved to Hollywood to begin her acting career. With limited financial resources, she supported herself by giving backgammon lessons, a game she had learned while living in London. Within nine months, she secured an agent, owned a car, and began gaining traction in the entertainment industry.

Her first major film role came in 1972 when she was cast as Marie Elena in The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean, a performance that earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Most Promising Newcomer. However, it was her portrayal of Pamela Barnes Ewing on the hit CBS primetime soap opera Dallas (1978–1987) that made her a household name. Her tenure on the show spanned nine seasons and solidified her status as a prominent television actress.

Modeling and Brief Career Shift

Before gaining prominence as an actress, Principal worked as a fashion model in New York and Europe. In the early 1970s, during a period of dissatisfaction with her acting opportunities, she temporarily shifted her focus and worked as a talent agent. Additionally, she earned the title of Miss Miami in 1969.

Notable Appearances and Public Attention

In 1973, Principal appeared in the film The Naked Ape and posed for Playboy magazine to help promote the movie. She later expressed regret over the decision, citing it as one of the more difficult moments in her career. Despite this, she continued to receive public acclaim for her appearance, including rankings in FHM’s 100 Sexiest Women list—placing 60th in 1995 and previously ranking 3rd in 1982 and 6th in 1984.