This veteran actress didn’t plan on an acting career, but one unexpected role on a popular TV show changed her life. Now, in her late fifties, she’s overcome major challenges and is living happily today. Here’s a look at her inspiring journey and how she’s doing now.
Known for playing Natalie Green on *The Facts of Life* (1979–1988), she was discovered as a teenager. Years later, health issues forced her to leave Hollywood, but now, at 58, she’s thriving once again.
In a 2013 article, the actress shared about her younger years, saying, “Have I ever mentioned performing or wanting to act? No, sir.”
She explained, “If someone had asked what I wanted to be, I’d have probably said a doctor, since I wanted to help people and had a talent for it.”
Her acting journey happened by chance. In the summer of 1979, just before ninth grade, she and some classmates were pulled from class to meet TV producers creating a new sitcom set in a girls’ school.
The producers, including actress Charlotte Rae, were casting for The Facts of Life and thought she’d be perfect for a role. Rae found her “charming and funny,” suggesting a part be created for her.
Her role on The Facts of Life made her a household name. She continued acting after the show and voiced Velma in What’s New, Scooby-Doo? for over a decade.
But in 2012, her life took a turn. One morning, she felt unusually tired during a walk. She called her friend Helen Hunt for help. After a doctor’s visit, tests revealed troubling news: she had breast cancer.
For the next five years, she endured a “siege,” facing surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation. Known for her optimism, she admitted feeling worn down by the recurring cancer.
“I kept waiting for things to get better, but they didn’t,” she said. “I couldn’t control or fix any of it.”
Seeking peace, she left Hollywood for a quiet life in the country. She moved to a farm owned by friends Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent Ridge, where she found a sense of family.
The farm kept her busy, from stacking shelves to feeding chickens and even caring for goats. Her friends often saw her helping around the property, finding comfort in the farm work.
In 2017, she was declared cancer-free and expressed gratitude for her parents and close friends who supported her through it all.
With her health restored, she returned to Hollywood, reconnecting with her fans and eager for new roles. She felt ready to work again, saying, “I think I’m a good actress, and I have a lot to give.”
At 58, she remains single and child-free, having dedicated herself to her career. Though she enjoys seeing her friends’ families, she cherishes the close relationships in her life.
She’s open to finding love, but with a strong network of loved ones, she feels fulfilled, knowing she can lean on others and support them in return.
Now in her late fifties, she has embraced aging naturally. Feeling more beautiful than in her youth, she avoids cosmetic fixes, humorously singing Let It Go from Frozen when tempted.
As she nears sixty, she is living life fully, surrounded by friends, pursuing her passions, and looking forward to what’s next. Her journey shows that love, humor, and resilience can guide us through even the hardest times, making every chapter meaningful.
DO YOU REMEMBER THIS LEGENDARY DANCE FROM THE 1950S? IT BRINGS STRONG MEMORIES
For me, dancing has always meant a lot of happy times and wonderful memories. A wide variety of dance forms have developed and changed throughout the years.
Although some have lost steam, others have maintained a steady following. “The Stroll” was a popular dance move in the 1950s, and it’s time to bring it back into the spotlight.
How does “The Stroll” work?
“The Stroll” may be a familiar name to anyone who lived during the late 1950s. American Bandstand was the birthplace of this iconic dance number, which shot to fame. The beauty of it was in its accessibility; anyone could participate.
The dance called for the males and girls to form an aisle separated by a line. Each pair would take turns walking down the line, with the leading lad and girl meeting in the center. Everyone was enthralled by the ensuing synchronized routine.
A Reflection on the Past
If you want to see this famous dance in action, here’s a clip from an Idaho dance program that aired in February 1958.
A lot of people’s happiness and excitement for “The Stroll” are shown in this video. Feel the joy and excitement as the happy couple walks down the aisle.
The original “Stroll” from the 1950s has a certain allure, even though dances and times have changed. It is a dance worth remembering because of its simplicity and the purity of that age.
Even if there are modern group line dance renditions of “The Stroll,” nothing beats the timeless allure of the original.
Take Part in “The Stroll”
To see “The Stroll” or relive it, just click the video below. We are eager to hear your feedback once you’ve watched.
Share your thoughts on this charming dance from yesteryear by posting a comment on our Facebook page.
Enjoy the timeless joy of “The Stroll”—a dance that has been delighting audiences for decades—with the help of this high-quality content.
Leave a Reply