'Donna Reed Show,' 'Coach' Actress Was 82
The Hollywood Reporter • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Shelley Fabares, known for her roles on The Donna Reed Show, opposite Elvis Presley in three films, and as Christine Armstrong on Coach, has died at age 82 after a brief illness in Los Angeles.
- She was married to actor Mike Farrell since 1984 and is survived by him and her stepchildren, Erin and Michael.
- Fabares gained early fame as Mary Stone on The Donna Reed Show and had a No. 1 hit with "Johnny Angel" in 1962, despite admitting she could not sing well.
- Her career included notable roles such as Francine Webster on One Day at a Time, the wife of Brian Piccolo in Brian’s Song, and earning Emmy nominations for Coach.
- Fabares underwent a liver transplant in 2000 and was praised for her warmth, generosity, and ability to make others feel valued throughout her life and career.
