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Shelley Fabares, the star of the classic sitcoms “The Donna Reed Show” and “Coach,” died on Saturday in Los Angeles. She was 82.
Fabares’ family said in a statement, “We will miss her deeply — not only as a celebrated
performer, but as the loving and extraordinary person she was in our everyday lives. We are heartbroken by her loss, yet profoundly grateful for the years we shared with her and for the joy, compassion, and love she brought to so many. We ask that our family’s privacy be respected as we grieve. We take comfort in knowing that Shelley’s work and the memories she created with those who loved her will continue to live on.”
Fabares starred as the Stone family daughter Mary in “The Donna Reed Show,” which ran for 275 episodes from 1958 to 1966. Fabares appeared in 192 episodes and left the series in 1965. On ABC’s “Coach,” which ranf or 199 episodes from 1989 to 1997, she played Christine Armstrong, a TV news anchor and the romantic interest of Craig T. Nelson’s college football coach Hayden Fox.
Fabares also had a brief career as a singer during her time on “The Donna Reed Show,” notching a No.1 hit with her 1961 track “Johnny Angel.”
Some of Fabares’ other TV credits include “The Little People,” “Forever Fernwood,” “The Practice,” “Hello, Larry,” “Highcliffe Manor,” “Fantasy Island,” “One Day at a Time” and “The Love Boat.”
Fabares was born in Santa Monica, Calif in January 1944. Her mom, Elsa, started her modeling career at a young age, which naturally led to roles on TV. Her aunt, Nanette Fabray, was a well-known Broadway star and film supporting player who also transitioned to TV roles.
Fabares was married to actor Mike Farrell, known for his long run on CBS’ “MASH,” for more than 42 years. In the 1980s and ’90s, Farrell and Fabares were active in numerous political and social causes including protesting U.S. activities in Central America and the anti-nuclear movement that took root in Southern California.
