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.
Tom Hanks Debuts New Look and Stirs Online Debate, “Looking Really Old”
Tom Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, recently showed why they’re considered one of Hollywood’s most enduring and beloved couples at a gala in Beverly Hills. While Hanks exuded his usual charm and Hollywood elegance, it was his noticeable change in appearance that caught everyone’s eye.
The Women’s Cancer Research Fund held its renowned annual fundraiser, “An Unforgettable Evening,” at the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills.
Among the notable attendees were Tom Hanks, 67, and his wife, Rita Wilson, 67, who serve as honorary chairs, lending their star power to the event.
When they arrived, Tom Hanks stole the spotlight in front of the cameras, accompanied by his wife, Rita Wilson. He looked dashing in a classic black suit, paired with a crisp white shirt, a stylish black-patterned tie, and matching shoes.
Rita stood gracefully by his side, wearing a stunning pinkish-red dress with an off-the-shoulder style and a cinched waist, complementing her husband’s elegant look.
Tom Hanks sported a new short haircut, accentuating his salt-and-pepper hair, but what really stood out was his mustache—a rare and eye-catching look for him.
However, many fans expressed concern about his appearance, thinking he didn’t look his best. One fan noted, “He looks terrible, seems to have aged about 20 years overnight.” Another commented, “Tom is looking really old now.” Someone else remarked, “They’re both certainly well-dressed for their age.”
Celebrities can be quite enigmatic, and it’s hard to tell if the person you see on screen is genuinely nice or not. To shed some light on this, we’ve gathered insights from 13 people who have shared their experiences of meeting Tom Hanks.
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