For those who grew up in the 80s, we can’t help but think back to some of the iconic television shows that we enjoyed during that time. One of those shows was The Facts of Life.
One of the stars of that iconic show became famous and her character became somewhat of a household name. She is now late in her 50s and has had a number of challenges in her life, many of which fans of The Facts of Life are unaware of.
Mindy Cohn was well known for playing the role of Natalie on that television show that ran from 1979 until 1988. She was discovered as a teenager but eventually, she would face some serious health struggles and leave Hollywood. She is now doing quite well at the age of 58.
The star reflected on the years that she was on that show and in Hollywood, saying: “Have I said anything at all about performing, or wanting to be an actress? No, sir.
“If you had asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I probably would’ve said a doctor because I wanted to help people and I have a knack for doing just that.”
It seems as if her getting into acting was just a matter of chance. She was called out of his class along with some other classmates to meet with TV producers when she was starting the eighth grade and ended up working on that sitcom.
At first, being in the show was just a way to get some free food and skip class but eventually, she was called to the headmaster’s office and given the job.
Not only did she play on The Facts of Life, she also played the voice of Velma in the “What’s New, Scooby-Doo?” reboot.
In 2012, Mindy would have her world changed forever. She was walking around the neighborhood and suddenly, she was too exhausted to finish.
After reaching out to Helen Hunt, a personal friend for assistance, she set up a doctor’s visit. They gave her a scan and a biopsy, and he was diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite the diagnosis, she did keep it secret for quite some time.
Over the following five years, she had to face chemotherapy, radiation, and a double mastectomy. It would wear down her natural optimism and the recurring cancer, which had metastasized, left her feeling like she had no hope.
She said: “I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, and then it would. And then I’d wait for another shoe to drop, and it would. […] I couldn’t control any of this. I couldn’t fix it.”
After the diagnosis, Mindy decided to leave Hollywood and move to the countryside. She found her peace with some close friends, Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent Ridge, who star on the ‘Fabulous Beekman Boys.’
Life on their 60-acre farm in New York provided the peaceful surroundings that she needed for healing. Living on that farm also allowed her to stay engaged and she loved the routine. Often, she will assist with the daily tasks that include feeding the chickens and stocking shelves.
Mindy was reported to be cancer-free by 2017 and was very grateful for the support of her parents. They had stayed by her side while she recovered and she appreciated her close friends as well.
She was now able to return to Hollywood, saying: “I’m feeling great. […] And I’m so ready to get back to working. I think I’m a good actress, and I have a lot to offer.”
We are so thankful that she has provided us with so much over the years and we look forward to seeing her in the future.
