Iconic ’80s Teen Star Fights Cancer on a Remote Farm—See Her at 58

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.

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

HAPPY MOMENTS: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Seal Victory with Kiss After Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl 2024 Triumph.

Taylor Swift, unable to contain her reaction, was left visibly in shock as Mecole Hardman’s touchdown secured the team’s OT win.

The Chiefs began the game with a worrisome 10-3 score, eventually reaching 19 all until OT.

Swift, in the VIP box with Ice Spice and Blake Lively, went wild in celebration.

Supporting Travis Kelce since the 2023 season began, Swift has attended 13 Kansas City Chiefs games (including the Super Bowl). The pop singer flew in from Japan a few hours ago, making it in time to see her boyfriend create history at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

Earlier during the game, Swift was caught in another viral moment as she huddled with her friends in similar fashion. It was the first lead for the Chiefs of the night, Mahomes passing to wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling.

Mahomes was just as pumped post-game, out of breath as he credited the win to his teammates:

“The guys never faulted. I can’t take all the glory, man. I’m proud of my guys, man. This is awesome. Legendary”.
Speaking about coach Andy Reid and the final call, Mahomes added:

“Coach Reid, he’s a legend, man. And Mecole Hardman, battled through adversity this year. Making that play was special. It’s a start (of a dynasty). I’m not done. We’re going to celebrate tonight, but we’re not done. We got a young team, we gonna keep this going”.

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