Child actress Melanie Watson, who became known for the popular U.S. sitcom Diff'rent Strokes, died at the age of 57.
According to local outlets including TMZ on the 28th (local time), Melanie Watson died on the 26th in Colorado Springs, U.S., after suffering severe health complications while receiving hospital treatment. Her brother Robert Watson said, "My sister was hospitalized before she died for internal bleeding symptoms, and the medical staff did their best until the end, but her condition deteriorated rapidly."
Melanie Watson, from Dana Point, California, suffered from osteogenesis imperfecta (commonly known as brittle bone syndrome), a rare genetic disorder that causes bones to break very easily, and battled health problems throughout her life. Her brother Robert recalled her resilient life, saying, "Even doctors said it was a miracle she lived this long."
In the early 1980s, Melanie Watson won wide affection on Diff'rent Strokes for playing the role of Kenny Gordon, friend of Arnold Jackson, the character played by Gary Coleman. The character in the show, like the late actress in real life, had osteogenesis imperfecta; she appeared in a total of four episodes from 1981 to 1986, leaving a strong impression.
After her acting career, she continued a life dedicated to people with disabilities and other vulnerable members of society. She helped found an organization that trains shelter dogs to assist people with disabilities, Train Rite, and she showed interest in local community work and politics, even running in a past Colorado city council election.
When news of her death was reported, social media filled with messages of condolence. One fan mourned, "Melanie was a pioneer who opened doors for actors with disabilities," and another said, "It was a brief but meaningful encounter, and I will remember her life for a long time."
Beginning as a child star and expanding her life through disability awareness and social contributions, her name and legacy are expected to remain long in the memories of fans.<
[Photo] SNS, still from Diff'rent Strokes
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