Emmy-nominated "Hill Street Blues" actress (she played Frank Furillo's ex-wife Fay) and ex-wife of series creator Steven Bochco. https://people.com/tv/barbara-bosson-dead/
Not gonna lie: I found Fay to be annoying "in the extremis", as Sgt Esterhaus used to say. But, she was redeemed as the seasons went on - she went from being a harpy, to frightened and vulnerable, to finally standing on her own two feet. There's something to be said for that - and it's a tribute to the strength of Barbara Bosson's performance. RIP actor.
I hope she gets to say "Now listen here mister" at the gates. Easily my least favorite character on a show I love but still wouldn't get rid of her. It's no wonder Frank drank. RIP.
Sorry to learn this. We've been watching this via DVD sets (midway through Season 3 now)... feel similar to other posts about the character, nothing against the acting.
Early on I saw Fay as comic relief, a respite from the bleakness. As you said, her character evolved and developed new dimensions as the series progressed.
I've been rewatching "Hill Street Blues" via Hulu for several months now. No disrespect to Ms. Bossom who was a fine actor, but when Faye's whining jags with Frank start, I hit the fast forward button. Likewise for Belker's phone convos with his ma, although he's my favorite character. Great show though.
HSB also on Prime Video, with the added bonus of X-Ray features. Yeah, her character grates early on but she really grew into a better place. I recall a very moving scene when her new husband dies suddenly and Joyce comforts her. Also just discovered NEWHART is also on Prime...but not, alas "Beverly Hills Buntz"
I've just started binge-watching Hill Street Blues on Hulu, after being only familiar with the theme tune (which is indelible, as proven by my 4 year old's instant love of it). I find the Fay character entirely believable; the insouciant gall that allows her to walk into Furillo's office whenever anything floats across her mind is very well conveyed... great actress. She had to be, to play in that company - what a show!