Born in 1969 in a showbiz family, she joined the entertainment industry when she was only four. By the mid-1980s, she was one of television’s most recognizable young stars, celebrated for her wit and relatability in a hit sitcom that became a cultural touchstone.
The child actress, circa 1980 | Source: Getty Images
Her talent and charisma seemed to promise a long career in Hollywood. However, at the height of her popularity, her appearances became sporadic, raising questions about what was happening behind the scenes. The answer would reveal a personal battle that would define much of her life and legacy.
The actress in 1985 | Source: Getty Images
From TV Darling to Hollywood Favorite
Her career began with a standout role in the award-winning miniseries “Roots.” However, her portrayal of Carol Seaver on the sitcom “Growing Pains” propelled her to stardom. As the clever and dependable middle child of the Seaver family, she endeared herself to audiences nationwide.
The actress in a photo shoot for “Growing Pains” in 1985 | Source: Getty Images
The series, which aired from 1985 to 1992, became one of the most beloved sitcoms of its time. Despite her success, her time on “Growing Pains” was not without challenges. By the show’s final season, she was forced to miss multiple episodes due to a personal struggle that she worked hard to keep private.
The “Growing Pains” cast in 1985 | Source: Getty Images
