Susan Fallender: All About Charles Shaughnessy's Wife!

Jed Schuppe 12 May 2025

Ever wondered what it takes to build a lasting love in the dazzling, often turbulent world of Hollywood? The enduring marriage of Charles Shaughnessy and Susan Fallender stands as a testament to commitment, a beacon of stability amidst fleeting romances.

Charles George Patrick Shaughnessy, the 5th Baron Shaughnessy, born on February 9, 1955, in London, is not only a British actor of considerable renown but also a man deeply rooted in family. Best known for his American television roles, including Shane Donovan on the daytime drama "Days of Our Lives," Maxwell Sheffield on the beloved sitcom "The Nanny," and the voice of Dennis the Goldfish on the animated series "Stanley," Shaughnessy has captivated audiences for decades. But beyond the spotlight, it's his nearly four-decade-long marriage to Susan Fallender that often piques the curiosity of fans and media alike.

Charles Shaughnessy: Bio, Career & Personal Life
Full Name	Charles George Patrick Shaughnessy, 5th Baron Shaughnessy
Birth Date	February 9, 1955
Birth Place	London, England
Age	69 years old (as of November 2024)
Occupation	Actor
Known For	Shane Donovan on "Days of Our Lives," Maxwell Sheffield on "The Nanny," Voice of Dennis the Goldfish on "Stanley"
Father	Alfred Shaughnessy (Television Writer)
Mother	Jean Lodge (Actress)
Spouse	Susan Fallender (Married May 21, 1983)
Children	Jenny Shaughnessy, Maddy Shaughnessy
Education	Eton College, Magdalene College, Cambridge (Law)
Net Worth	Estimated $3 Million
Website	CharlesShaughnessy.com

Susan Fallender, while perhaps less prominently in the public eye, is an accomplished actress in her own right. Her credits include roles in iconic films and television series such as "Trading Places" (1983), "Star Trek: The Next Generation" (1987), and "Space Rangers" (1993). Despite the considerable fame surrounding both her and her husband, Fallender has consciously maintained a low profile, prioritizing her family and personal life.

Theirs is a love story that began in London, where they first crossed paths at drama school. In 1983, while Charles was in London and Susan was in California, he proposed over the phone – a testament to their transatlantic connection. They officially tied the knot on May 21, 1983, and have remained inseparable ever since.

Together, Charles and Susan have two daughters, Jenny, born in 1990, and Maddy, born in 1995. The couple has always prioritized family. An interesting anecdote reveals that their daughters, while supportive of their father's career, found it somewhat disconcerting to watch him kiss Fran Drescher on "The Nanny." This speaks to the delicate balance between professional obligations and personal sensitivities, a challenge common to many families in the entertainment industry.

Charles Shaughnessy's journey to stardom began long before his arrival in the United States. Born into a family deeply entrenched in show business, his father, Alfred Shaughnessy, was the principal writer for the popular London Weekend Television/ITV series "Upstairs, Downstairs" (1971), while his mother, Jean Lodge, was a seasoned actress. This familial influence undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping Charles's career path. He began acting in school plays, honing his skills and nurturing his passion for performance. He furthered his education at Eton College and later read law at Magdalene College, Cambridge, showcasing a well-rounded intellect alongside his artistic inclinations.

Shaughnessy's portrayal of Shane Donovan on "Days of Our Lives" from 1984 to 1992 solidified his place in American television. He became a heartthrob to daytime viewers, navigating the complex storylines and emotional demands of a soap opera with considerable skill. However, it was his role as Maxwell Sheffield on "The Nanny," which aired from November 1993 to June 1999, that propelled him to household name status. His chemistry with Fran Drescher was undeniable, creating a comedic duo that resonated with audiences worldwide.

Despite the on-screen romance between Maxwell Sheffield and Fran Fine, Charles Shaughnessy and Fran Drescher were never romantically involved in real life. Shaughnessy's commitment to Susan Fallender has remained unwavering throughout his career. The cancellation of "The Nanny" was, according to Drescher, partly attributed to the decision to have their characters marry, a move that some believe altered the dynamic of the show.

Susan Fallender's career, though often overshadowed by her husband's, is noteworthy in its own right. Her roles in "Trading Places," a classic comedy, and appearances in the science fiction franchises "Star Trek: The Next Generation" and "Space Rangers" demonstrate her versatility as an actress. While she maintains a relatively private life, her contributions to the entertainment industry are undeniable. Her sister, Deborah Fallender, is also a professional actress, indicating a family tradition of artistic pursuit.

The Shaughnessy-Fallender union is a testament to the power of shared values and mutual support. They first met while studying at drama school in London, a foundation built on a common passion for the arts. Their relationship has weathered the storms of fame, distance, and the inherent challenges of a life in the public eye. On May 28th, 2023, Charles Shaughnessy sent a public "love note" to his wife of four decades. This small gesture illustrates the depth of their connection and their willingness to share their affection with the world.

The couple's combined net worth is estimated to be around $4 million, a reflection of their successful careers in entertainment. Charles Shaughnessy's net worth is estimated at $3 million. But beyond financial success, it is their enduring love and commitment to family that truly defines their legacy. They represent a rare breed in Hollywood, a couple who have managed to navigate the complexities of fame while maintaining a strong and loving relationship. Susan Fallender’s income is contributed by her exceptional acting performances.

In recent years, the cast of "The Nanny" reunited for a table read of the show's pilot episode via Zoom, offering fans a nostalgic glimpse into the beloved sitcom. This reunion served as a way to provide comfort and entertainment during a period of global anxiety, highlighting the enduring appeal of the show and the camaraderie among its cast members.

Charles Shaughnessy's portrayal of Victor Cassadine on "General Hospital" adds another layer to his impressive career. Even as his character casts a "new shadow over Port Charles," Shaughnessy's personal life remains grounded in his unwavering love for Susan Fallender. Their story serves as an inspiring example of how to build a lasting relationship in the face of the unique pressures and challenges of the entertainment industry.

The word spouse describes the person that charles married which is susan. So the keyword charles shaughnessy spouse is a noun. The roles and responsibilities of a spouse often depend on cultural and societal norms, as well as the specific agreements and expectations within the marriage. Some common aspects of being a spouse include: companionship, emotional Support, financial partnership, household responsibilities and parental responsibilities.

Charles Shaughnessy's multifaceted career extends beyond television, encompassing theatre and film. His training at drama school in London provided him with a solid foundation in acting technique, allowing him to transition seamlessly between different mediums. He voiced the character of Dennis the Goldfish on the animated series "Stanley" and brought depth and nuance to the role of Maxwell Sheffield on "The Nanny." Shaughnessy's ability to embody diverse characters has cemented his status as a respected and versatile actor.

Charles is the son of Alfred Shaughnessy and Jean Lodge, both of whom were actively involved in the entertainment industry. His father's work as a television writer, particularly his role as the scriptwriter for "Upstairs, Downstairs," exposed Charles to the world of storytelling and production from a young age. His mother's career as an actress further immersed him in the performing arts. This upbringing instilled in him a deep appreciation for the craft of acting and a strong work ethic.

Charles proposed to Susan over a phone call. Despite the distance, Charles successfully conveyed his love and commitment, and Susan accepted his proposal. Their journey from drama school acquaintances to a devoted married couple is a story of perseverance, understanding, and unwavering affection. Susan Fallender has always maintained a low profile in her private life. This dedication to maintaining a sense of normalcy amidst the demands of fame reflects their shared values and their commitment to prioritizing family above all else.

The couple first encountered each other in London. The city served as the backdrop for their budding romance, as they navigated the challenges and triumphs of their early careers. Despite the pressures of their respective professions, they found solace and support in each other's company, laying the foundation for a lifelong partnership.Charles Shaughnessy's transition from British television to American stardom is a testament to his talent, versatility, and adaptability. His ability to capture the hearts of audiences on both sides of the Atlantic speaks to his universal appeal and his commitment to his craft.

Susan Fallender has a sister named Deborah Fallender, who is also a professional actress. This familial connection highlights the prevalence of artistic talent within the Fallender family and suggests a shared passion for the performing arts. The presence of multiple actors within a family can create a supportive and collaborative environment, fostering creativity and mutual understanding.

Actor Charles Shaughnessy, known for his role on 'The Nanny,' has been married to Susan Fallender since before the show first premiered. It's a story about love blossoming early and enduring through the years. He moved to the United States and married the actress Susan Fallender in 1983. They have two daughters, Jenny (born 1990) and Maddy (born 1995). This timeline reinforces the depth and longevity of their relationship, demonstrating their commitment to each other long before the height of Shaughnessy's fame.

Susan Fallender is known for her roles in various movies and TV shows, including "Trading Places," "Star Trek: The Next Generation," and "Space Rangers." She is also celebrated as the wife of Charles Shaughnessy, the British actor known for his role in the TV series "The Nanny." This dual recognition highlights her accomplishments as an actress and her role as a supportive partner in a high-profile relationship.

Susan Fallender's Hollywood journey is marked by her roles in films like 'Trading Places' and her appearances in 'Star Trek: The Next Generation' and 'Space Rangers.' Her enduring love with Charles Shaughnessy is a central aspect of her story. From their meeting at a London drama school to their four decades of marriage, their story is one of shared dreams and unwavering commitment. The couple has two children together, and through the years, they have remained a strong and supportive family unit in the entertainment world.

As Victor on 'General Hospital,' Charles Shaugnessy sends a love note to his wife of four decades. Their shared love and commitment is evident. This gesture serves as a heartwarming reminder of the enduring power of love and the importance of cherishing long-term relationships.

Susan Fallender and Charles Shaughnessy first encountered each other in London. The couple lives together, sharing a love we all cannot imagine. In fact, Charles has been married to Susan Fallender since 1983. In 1983 she has been married to fellow actor Charles Shaughnessy, known for his role in the 90s sitcom 'The Nanny.' Their relationship is very strong.