Births on April 22

Charlotte Rae, American actress and singer

Charlotte Rae Lubotsky, universally recognized by her professional name, Charlotte Rae, was an indelible figure in American entertainment. Born on April 22, 1926, and passing on August 5, 2018, her remarkable career as a character actress, comedienne, and singer spanned an impressive six decades, leaving an enduring mark on stage, film, and television. Rae was celebrated for her distinctive voice, expressive face, and an uncanny ability to bring warmth, humor, and depth to every role she embodied, making her a beloved presence for generations of viewers.

The Enduring Legacy of Edna Garrett

While Charlotte Rae's career was rich and varied, she is perhaps most affectionately remembered for her iconic portrayal of Edna Garrett, a character that became a cornerstone of 1980s television. Mrs. Garrett first captivated audiences on the popular sitcom Diff'rent Strokes, where she served as the Drummond family's wise and empathetic housekeeper. Her natural chemistry and relatable portrayal quickly made her a fan favorite, paving the way for a groundbreaking spin-off.

From Diff'rent Strokes to The Facts of Life

The widespread appeal of Mrs. Garrett led to her starring role in The Facts of Life, which premiered in 1979. This pioneering sitcom followed Mrs. Garrett as she transitioned to housemother and later, dietitian, at the fictional Eastland School, guiding a diverse group of teenage girls through the trials and tribulations of adolescence. Charlotte Rae anchored the show from 1979 to 1986, infusing Mrs. Garrett with a unique blend of stern wisdom, gentle humor, and boundless compassion. Her performance was not just entertaining; it provided a moral compass for the characters and viewers alike, tackling serious issues with grace and sincerity. This beloved role earned her a prestigious Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Best Actress in a Comedy in 1982, a testament to her profound impact on the series.

Rae's connection to the beloved characters and narratives of The Facts of Life extended beyond the weekly series. She reprised her role in two memorable television films that further enriched the show's universe: The Facts of Life Goes to Paris in 1982, which took the Eastland girls on an international adventure, and the much-anticipated The Facts of Life Reunion in 2001, allowing fans to reconnect with the enduring bonds of friendship and mentorship she helped create.

A Versatile Performer: Voice Acting and Other Appearances

Beyond her live-action triumphs, Charlotte Rae also lent her distinctive voice to animated characters, showcasing her versatility and range. She brought to life the character of "Nanny" in 101 Dalmatians: The Series, adding her signature warmth and care to the animated world. Her vocal talents were also featured in the animated feature film Tom and Jerry: The Movie, where she voiced the memorable character of Aunt Pristine Figg, demonstrating her ability to bring a wide array of personalities to life through her voice alone.

Later in her career, Rae continued to charm new generations of viewers, notably appearing as Gammy Hart in the Disney Channel series Girl Meets World, a spin-off of the popular 90s sitcom Boy Meets World. Her guest appearance offered a delightful nod to her extensive television history and connected her with a contemporary audience, proving her timeless appeal.

Late Career Resurgence and Personal Reflections

In 2015, Charlotte Rae made a notable return to the big screen, captivating audiences in the feature film Ricki and the Flash. In this musical comedy-drama, she shared the screen with an illustrious cast including Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, and Rick Springfield, reaffirming her enduring presence and talent in the cinematic landscape.

That same year, in November 2015, Rae offered a deeply personal look into her remarkable life and career with the release of her autobiography, titled The Facts of My Life. Co-written with her son, Larry Strauss, the memoir provided an intimate account of her journey through Hollywood, detailing the highs and lows, personal challenges, and professional triumphs that shaped her extraordinary six-decade career. It served as a poignant reflection, allowing fans to delve into the genuine "facts" of the woman behind the beloved characters.

Charlotte Rae's passing on August 5, 2018, marked the end of an era, but her contributions to entertainment continue to resonate. Her legacy is one of warmth, humor, and an unparalleled ability to connect with audiences, ensuring that her work, particularly as the iconic Mrs. Garrett, remains a cherished part of television history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Charlotte Rae

Who was Charlotte Rae?

Charlotte Rae, born Charlotte Rae Lubotsky, was a celebrated American character actress, comedienne, and singer whose career spanned six decades. She was most famous for her iconic role as Edna Garrett in the sitcoms Diff'rent Strokes and its spin-off, The Facts of Life.

What was Charlotte Rae most famous for?

Charlotte Rae was most famous for her beloved portrayal of Edna Garrett, the wise and nurturing housemother in the popular 1980s television sitcom The Facts of Life, and its precursor, Diff'rent Strokes.

When did Charlotte Rae leave The Facts of Life?

Charlotte Rae starred as Mrs. Garrett on The Facts of Life from its inception in 1979 until 1986, when she departed the series, though she later returned for reunion specials.

Did Charlotte Rae write a book?

Yes, Charlotte Rae released her autobiography titled The Facts of My Life in November 2015, which she co-wrote with her son, Larry Strauss.

What other notable roles did Charlotte Rae have?

Besides Mrs. Garrett, Charlotte Rae had significant voice roles as "Nanny" in 101 Dalmatians: The Series and Aunt Pristine Figg in Tom and Jerry: The Movie. She also appeared as Gammy Hart in Girl Meets World and in the 2015 feature film Ricki and the Flash with Meryl Streep.

When did Charlotte Rae pass away?

Charlotte Rae passed away on August 5, 2018, at the age of 92.