#17: John James as Jeff Colby
John James brought classic leading-man charm to Dynasty as Jeff Colby, the ambitious yet principled heir entangled with the Carringtons. His enduring romance with Fallon—equal parts passion and heartbreak—anchored much of the show’s emotional core. With his easy charisma, James embodied the perfect 1980s television heartthrob.
Before Dynasty, James had trained in New York and worked in commercials and small TV parts. The role of Jeff changed everything, propelling him into international fame. He became a staple of glossy magazine spreads and soap opera fandom, admired as much for his sharp suits as for his sincerity on screen.