'The Facts of Life': Through The Years With The Cast

The Facts of Life (1979-1985) was not only a great show, but it also influenced many young women at the time in a more than positive way. The show was, in fact, a spin-off series of the popular TV show Different Strokes. The plot mainly revolved around the mischievous adventures of a group of female students, who lived under the same roof with the parental figure "Edna Garrett". Not only did the actors grow throughout the 9 seasons of the show, but they also continued to grow even after the series. Let's have a look at what they're doing today.

"Andy Moffet" is the teenager who helped the girls with their coming-of-age issues. He was adopted into the show by sweet "Beverly Ann Stickle".

Mackenzie Astin continued to make guest appearances on Lost, House, Psych, Grey's Anatomy and NCIS. He also starred on The Magicians, Homeland, Blue Bloods, and the hit thriller You.

He's actually the younger brother of Lord of the Rings star Sean Astin and the son of John Astin and Patty Duke!

"Blair Warner" was portrayed as the not-so-lovable spoiled private school student at the beginning of the show. She is the oldest of the group of girls and eventually became one of the most popular characters on the show!

Lisa Whelchel is mostly remembered for her role in The Facts of Life playing the role of "Blair Warner". Afterward, she starred in numerous TV movies such as The Facts of Life Go to Paris, Back to Next Saturday, The Facts of Life Reunion, and many more movies related to her role as Blaire Warner. Whelchel also eventually dove into the music industry producing her Christian Pop album All Because of You in 1984. In addition to her music, she speaks regularly at churches and conferences and has written ten books on several different topics.

"Edna Garrett" was the warm, loving housemother any teenager would love to have! She always served as a helping hand to the girls.

Charlotte Rae († 93) worked as an actress almost until her death! After she left the show at the beginning of the 8th season, Rae moved on to star in itsy Bitsy Spider, 101 Dalmatians: The Series, as well as guest-starring in series like E.R., Life, Pretty Little Liars and The King of Queens. Her most recent project has been in a documentary called Broadway: The Golden Age in 2018. She has survived pancreatic cancer before, but unfortunately was diagnosed with bone cancer and passed away on August 5th, 2018.

"Beverly Ann Stickle" was "Edna Garrett's" divorced sister. She was first seen in 1986 after the character, "Mrs. Garrett" moved to Africa to serve the Peace Corps. She took over the role of guardian for the girls.

Cloris Leachman had a fairly short-lived but memorable role in The Facts of Life playing the role of "Beverly Ann Stickle". Afterward, she appeared in shows like The Beverly Hillbillies, Malcolm in the Middle and Dancing with the Stars.

She's also well known for her roles in Young Frankenstein, Yesterday, and Spanglish. Sadly, Cloris passed away on January 27th, 2021 at the age of 94.

"Natalie Green" was the fun-loving, slightly insecure little girl in The Facts of Life. Not only was "Natalie" one of the more beloved characters on the show, but she also conveyed a positive body image, which helped many young teens at the time.