Sarah Rafferty remains one of Hollywood's most beloved and dynamic actresses, captivating audiences worldwide with her signature fiery red hair and razor-sharp wit. As of today, December 12, 2025, the star, best known for her unforgettable portrayal of Donna Paulsen on the hit legal drama Suits, is experiencing a major career resurgence with high-profile projects that are keeping her firmly in the spotlight.
From reuniting with a former co-star for a highly anticipated new venture to starring in a popular Netflix series, Rafferty is proving that her talent extends far beyond the walls of Pearson Specter Litt. This deep dive explores her complete profile, her latest professional endeavors, and the enduring legacy of the character that made her a global icon.
Sarah Rafferty: A Complete Biography and Profile
Sarah Rafferty, born Sarah Gray Rafferty, is an American actress whose career spans over two decades in television and film. Her background in classical theatre and strong educational foundation laid the groundwork for her success, culminating in her breakthrough role on the USA Network's flagship series, Suits. Below is a complete profile of the accomplished star:
- Full Name: Sarah Gray Rafferty
- Date of Birth: December 6, 1972
- Place of Birth: New Canaan, Connecticut, U.S.
- Education: Graduated magna cum laude from Hamilton College with a degree in English. She also earned a Master of Fine Arts from the Yale School of Drama.
- Best Known For: Donna Roberta Paulsen on the legal drama Suits (2011–2019).
- Spouse: Santtu Seppälä (married 2001).
- Children: Two daughters, Oona Gray and Iris Friday.
- Early Career Highlights: Before Suits, Rafferty appeared in numerous television series, including Law & Order, CSI: Miami, Six Feet Under, and Bones.
- Notable Post-Suits Roles: Dr. Pamela Blake on Chicago Med and Dr. Suzanne Britland on Grey’s Anatomy.
Beyond Pearson Specter: The Walter Boys and a New Podcast Era
While the Suits revival continues to dominate streaming charts, Sarah Rafferty has successfully transitioned into new, high-profile projects that demonstrate her versatility as an actress and media personality.
The Netflix Hit: My Life With the Walter Boys
One of Rafferty's most significant recent roles is that of Dr. Katherine Walter in the popular Netflix series, My Life With the Walter Boys. The show, based on the Ali Novak novel, has been a major success for the streaming giant, particularly with young adult audiences.
Rafferty's performance as the compassionate yet firm matriarch of the Walter family has been widely praised. The series' popularity has led to quick renewals, with reports indicating that production for Season 3 has recently wrapped up. Her involvement in this project solidifies her status as a mainstream television star in the post-Suits era.
The Highly Anticipated 'Sidebar' Podcast Reunion
Perhaps the most exciting news for long-time fans is the launch of her new venture with former co-star Patrick J. Adams (who played Mike Ross on Suits). The duo is co-hosting a Suits rewatch podcast titled "Sidebar."
The podcast features Rafferty and Adams watching through every episode of the beloved legal drama, offering behind-the-scenes insights, personal anecdotes, and reactions to the show's most iconic moments. This project has generated significant buzz, capitalizing on the show's renewed popularity on streaming services and allowing fans to reconnect with the stars who brought the characters to life.
The Enduring Legacy of Donna Paulsen and the Suits Phenomenon
It is impossible to discuss Sarah Rafferty without acknowledging the indelible mark left by her portrayal of Donna Paulsen. As the executive assistant and eventual COO of the fictional law firm, Donna was the heart, soul, and often the moral compass of the series.
The character of Donna Paulsen was not merely a supporting role; she was an essential entity in the Suits universe. Her unparalleled intuition, often referred to as "The Donna," and her complex relationship with Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht) were central to the show's narrative.
The Unmatched Chemistry of the Suits Cast
Rafferty's chemistry with the entire Suits ensemble, including Patrick J. Adams, Gabriel Macht, Rick Hoffman (Louis Litt), and Meghan Markle (Rachel Zane), was a key factor in the show's success. Her real-life friendship with Macht, which predates the series, translated into one of the most compelling professional and romantic dynamics in television history.
The character's evolution from a highly organized secretary to a powerful corporate figure resonated deeply with viewers, making Donna Paulsen a feminist icon in the legal drama genre.
A Continued Connection with Fans
Even years after the show concluded, Rafferty maintains a strong connection with her global fanbase. Her recent appearance at the Monte-Carlo TV Festival in June 2025 underscored her international appeal and the lasting impact of the Suits phenomenon. Furthermore, her openness to a potential return for a Suits spin-off or movie has kept fans hopeful for more of Donna Paulsen's brilliance.
The "Sidebar" podcast is a direct response to this fan demand, offering a fresh, unique way for the cast to revisit the series and for audiences to relive the moments that made it a cultural phenomenon. It is a testament to the enduring topical authority of the show and its stars.
What’s Next for Sarah Rafferty?
With My Life With the Walter Boys Season 3 wrapped and the "Sidebar" podcast in full swing, Sarah Rafferty is enjoying a highly productive and visible phase of her career. Her ability to pivot from the intense drama of Suits to the family dynamics of a Netflix hit, while simultaneously launching a successful media venture, highlights her business acumen and artistic range.
Fans can look forward to more insights into her life and career through the podcast and her continued presence in major television productions. Sarah Rafferty is not just a beloved actress; she is a powerful creative force who continues to shape the entertainment landscape.
Detail Author:
- Name : Estrella Labadie
- Username : ngoodwin
- Email : wolff.green@gmail.com
- Birthdate : 1974-01-14
- Address : 65387 Juana Islands Barrettbury, CA 17743
- Phone : 1-845-890-5206
- Company : Boehm Group
- Job : Counseling Psychologist
- Bio : Quis veniam qui voluptates quisquam saepe. Dolor tenetur aut velit quos cumque doloribus tenetur aspernatur. Sed enim voluptatem et iste autem consequatur. Ullam sit et vero voluptates.
Socials
instagram:
- url : https://instagram.com/quintongoodwin
- username : quintongoodwin
- bio : Non explicabo tenetur non illo. Veritatis voluptatibus eum asperiores ullam.
- followers : 3623
- following : 126
tiktok:
- url : https://tiktok.com/@quinton_goodwin
- username : quinton_goodwin
- bio : Quia dolores rem voluptas est incidunt voluptas rem quos.
- followers : 4860
- following : 2342
linkedin:
- url : https://linkedin.com/in/quinton_goodwin
- username : quinton_goodwin
- bio : Ea sed itaque ut rerum illum sit ipsum sit.
- followers : 4332
- following : 2022
twitter:
- url : https://twitter.com/quinton3019
- username : quinton3019
- bio : Ab maiores dolorem quia error. Eum consequatur voluptas quaerat delectus earum. Ea earum deleniti nam maxime.
- followers : 3962
- following : 854
facebook:
- url : https://facebook.com/quinton.goodwin
- username : quinton.goodwin
- bio : Repudiandae qui cum ab. Quidem alias quia velit ex.
- followers : 3842
- following : 213