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Sarah Rafferty is an American actress best known for her role as the sharp-witted and impeccably dressed Donna Paulsen on the hit legal drama Suits. With her captivating performances and sophisticated screen presence, Rafferty became a fan favorite, playing the character for nine successful seasons. Beyond her work on Suits, she has showcased her versatility as an actress in film and television and is admired for her elegance and dedication to her craft. Off-screen, Rafferty is also known for her philanthropic efforts and close friendships with her co-stars.
Early Life and Background
Sarah Gray Rafferty was born on December 6, 1972, in New Canaan, Connecticut. She grew up in a large and supportive family, with three older sisters, in a home that encouraged education, creativity, and the arts. Her mother, Mary Lee Rafferty, was the Chairwoman of the English Department at an elite private school, and her father, Michael Rafferty, was a well-known financial executive and artist. With such a rich background in both academics and the arts, Rafferty developed a passion for performing at a young age.
Rafferty’s love for theater and acting began in her teenage years, and she went on to study English and Theater at Hamilton College. During her time in college, she also studied abroad at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom, where she immersed herself in British theater. Eager to refine her craft further, Rafferty pursued a Master of Fine Arts degree at the Yale School of Drama, a prestigious institution that has trained many of the world’s leading actors.
Early Career and Struggles
After completing her training, Sarah Rafferty began her acting career in the early 2000s with guest roles in television shows such as Law & Order, Third Watch, and Without a Trace. Like many aspiring actors, her early career was marked by small roles in various TV shows and independent films. Though these appearances were brief, they allowed Rafferty to build her acting resume and gain valuable experience.
During these years, Rafferty appeared in shows like CSI: Miami, Six Feet Under, and Brothers & Sisters, where she honed her skills and began to develop her distinctive style. Although she had yet to land a breakthrough role, Rafferty’s performances were consistently well-received, highlighting her talent and dedication.
Breakthrough Role: Donna Paulsen on Suits
Sarah Rafferty’s career took a major turn in 2011 when she was cast as Donna Paulsen on Suits. Created by Aaron Korsh, the USA Network legal drama followed the lives of lawyers at a prestigious New York City law firm. Donna Paulsen, Rafferty’s character, was the legal secretary (and later, COO) with unparalleled intelligence, a razor-sharp wit, and a deep loyalty to her boss and friend, Harvey Specter, played by Gabriel Macht.
Donna quickly became a standout character on Suits, known for her quick comebacks, impeccable fashion sense, and confident demeanor. Rafferty’s chemistry with Macht, her longtime friend, was evident on screen and became a central part of the show’s appeal. Their dynamic — a blend of professionalism, friendship, and unspoken romantic tension — captivated audiences and became one of the most beloved aspects of the series.
Rafferty’s portrayal of Donna Paulsen showcased her ability to convey strength and vulnerability, humor and depth, making Donna not just a supporting character but a pivotal part of the show’s success. Over the course of nine seasons, Donna’s role evolved from a sharp-witted secretary to the firm’s Chief Operating Officer, a testament to the character’s growth and Rafferty’s nuanced performance.
Personal Connections on Suits
One of the most notable aspects of Rafferty’s time on Suits was her close friendship with her co-stars, particularly Gabriel Macht. The two had known each other long before joining the cast of Suits, having met at the Williamstown Theatre Festival. Their real-life friendship translated effortlessly into their on-screen chemistry, and their mutual respect and camaraderie made their performances even more compelling.
Rafferty also developed strong bonds with other cast members, including Patrick J. Adams (Mike Ross), Meghan Markle (Rachel Zane), and Gina Torres (Jessica Pearson). She was particularly close with Meghan Markle, and the two remained friends even after Markle left the show in 2017 to marry Prince Harry. Rafferty and other Suits co-stars attended Markle’s royal wedding in 2018, further highlighting the strong ties that formed among the cast.
Life After Suits and Career Expansion
When Suits ended in 2019 after nine successful seasons, Rafferty found herself at a turning point in her career. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to portray Donna and for the fans who embraced the character’s journey. While saying goodbye to Donna was bittersweet, it also allowed Rafferty to explore new roles and projects.
After Suits, she appeared in guest roles on shows like Grey’s Anatomy, where she played Suzanne Britland in a dramatic two-episode arc. This role, a departure from the composed and confident Donna, showcased Rafferty’s range as an actress. She continued to seek out roles that challenged her creatively, exploring both drama and comedy.
Personal Life
Sarah Rafferty is as dedicated to her family as she is to her craft. She has been married to Santtu Seppälä, a financial analyst, since 2001. The couple has two daughters, and Rafferty frequently speaks about balancing her career with motherhood. Her family life is a source of strength and inspiration, and she has shared that maintaining a strong support system has been essential to her success.
Rafferty is also known for her philanthropic efforts. She is actively involved in various charitable organizations and uses her platform to support causes close to her heart, such as cancer research and women’s empowerment. Her down-to-earth nature and genuine commitment to making a difference have endeared her to fans and colleagues alike.
Style Icon and Influencer
One of the most striking aspects of Rafferty’s portrayal of Donna Paulsen was the character’s impeccable style. With her signature red hair and sophisticated wardrobe, Rafferty became something of a style icon, both on and off-screen. Her character’s fashion choices often reflected Donna’s power, confidence, and femininity, and fans eagerly looked forward to each new outfit.
Rafferty’s personal style is similarly polished and elegant. She has been featured in numerous fashion magazines and has become a sought-after guest at industry events and fashion shows. Her influence extends beyond acting; she is admired for her poise, grace, and timeless fashion sense.
Legacy and Future Projects
Sarah Rafferty’s portrayal of Donna Paulsen on Suits has left an indelible mark on television. Donna’s quick wit, loyalty, and sophistication made her a role model for many viewers, and Rafferty’s nuanced performance brought depth and complexity to the character. While Suits has ended, Rafferty’s impact continues, and she remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
As she continues to take on new roles, both on television and in film, Sarah Rafferty is poised for a long and diverse career. Whether she’s playing a high-powered legal secretary, a dramatic guest star, or a new character entirely, Rafferty’s talent and dedication ensure that she will remain a fixture in Hollywood for years to come.
Conclusion
Sarah Rafferty’s journey from a theater student to a beloved television star is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and passion for storytelling. Her portrayal of Donna Paulsen on Suits has solidified her as a versatile and dynamic actress, and her continued work promises to showcase even more of her abilities. With her combination of grace, intelligence, and wit, Sarah Rafferty is not just a star; she is an artist who continues to inspire audiences around the world.
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