Susan Oliver, born Charlotte Gercke on February 13, 1932, in New York City, was an American actress and television director known for her extensive work in film, television, and theater. She grew up in a family with a strong interest in the arts, with her father, George Gercke, being a political reporter and her mother, Ruth Oliver, an astrology practitioner. 

Her passion for acting began at a young age, and she performed in school plays and community theaters. She attended Swarthmore College and later studied at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City.

Her acting career began in the early 1950s when she moved to New York City and landed her first television role in the soap opera "Miss Susan" in 1951. She quickly gained recognition for her talent and versatility, appearing in various television shows and films. 

Her breakthrough came with her performance in the Off-Broadway revival of Tennessee Williams' "Summer and Smoke" in 1952, which earned her critical acclaim and established her as a leading actress.

Throughout her career, she appeared in numerous films, including "The Green-Eyed Blonde" (1957), "The Gene Krupa Story" (1959), "Butterfield 8" (1960), "The Caretakers" (1963), and "Change of Habit" (1969).

She was also known for her work in television, earning two Primetime Emmy Awards for her performances in "A Christmas Memory" (1967) and "The Thanksgiving Visitor" (1969). Her versatility as an actress allowed her to take on a variety of roles, from dramatic performances to guest appearances on popular shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "Wagon Train," "Route 66," and "Star Trek."

In addition to her acting career, Susan Oliver was an accomplished aviator. She survived a plane crash, set aerial records, and won a transcontinental plane race. 

Her passion for flying led her to write and direct the short film "Cowboysan" (1978), which told the story of Japanese actors performing in an American western. Oliver's dedication to her craft and her love for adventure made her a unique and inspiring figure in Hollywood.

Her personal life was relatively private. She never married and had no children. She spent her later years between her homes in New York City and Woodland Hills, California. Despite facing health challenges, including a battle with lung cancer, she continued to work in television and low-budget films until her death on May 10, 1990, at the age of 58.

Throughout her career, she received several awards and nominations. She won a Theatre World Award for her performance in "Patate" and was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for her role in "Amelia Earhart" (1977). 

Her contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized posthumously with the Lifetime Achievement Award from TheWIFTS Foundation International Visionary Awards in 2014.