Overview

Lisa Hartman Black (born June 1, 1956) is an American actress and singer who gained prominence on television in the 1970s and 1980s. She has worked across sitcoms, primetime dramas and soap operas while also recording as a solo artist under the name Lisa Hartman. For a concise career summary see the career profile.

Early life and public image

Born in the Houston, Texas area, Hartman established a public persona that combined acting and music. Her stage presence as a performer helped her transition between screen roles and studio recordings. Contemporary press often noted the dual nature of her career; a useful overview of her musical output is available at discography resources.

Television career

Hartman is best known for several television roles beginning in the late 1970s. She starred in the short-lived sitcom Tabitha, and later achieved wider recognition for her role on the prime-time soap Knots Landing, in which she portrayed the singer Ciji Dunne. For listings of her television appearances consult a comprehensive television credits page. Specific program pages include the show's archive: Tabitha and a dedicated page for Knots Landing.

Music and recordings

Between 1976 and 1987 Hartman released four solo albums under her professional name. Her music career complemented her television work, occasionally intersecting when songs or musical storylines featured in the shows where she appeared. Her portrayal of the rock singer Ciji Dunne on television is often cited as one of the clearer links between her acting and singing work; read more about that character at Ciji Dunne. A general listing of her solo records and singles is maintained at discography listings.

Selected credits and recordings

  • Television highlights: Tabitha, Knots Landing and guest roles on various series.
  • Notable character: Ciji Dunne — a rock singer whose storyline drew attention to Hartman's musical talents.
  • Albums: Four solo LPs released between 1976 and 1987 under the name Lisa Hartman.

Hartman's career illustrates a frequently seen path in American entertainment: performers moving between recording studios and television sets, leveraging visibility in one medium to support work in the other. For further reading, the linked resources above collect credits, releases and biographical context.