Andrea Fay Friedman, known for her groundbreaking role as Amanda Swanson on the acclaimed television drama. Life goes on, died on December 3 at his residence in Santa Monica. She was 53 years old.
His father, Hal Friedman, confirmed his death to The New York Timesstating that he succumbed to complications related to Alzheimer’s disease, which is prevalent among people with Down syndrome over the age of 50. Due to the progression of the disease, Andrea had not been able to communicate verbally for the past year.
Born June 1, 1970 in Santa Monica, Friedman forged a significant path in the on-screen representation of people with Down syndrome. His breakthrough came in 1992 with his role in Life goes on, playing the girlfriend and eventual wife of the main character, Charles “Corky” Thatcher, who also had Down syndrome. The series stood out as the first major show to feature not just one, but two characters with Down syndrome.
Andrea’s legacy
His impressive time in the drama, alongside Patti LuPone, Chris Burke and Kellie Martin, lasted two years. Afterwards, Friedman continued to challenge stereotypes with humor, using her platform to advocate for awareness about people with Down syndrome. In a 2010 episode of Family Guy, she played Ellen, a girl with Down syndrome who dates Chris Griffin (voiced by Seth Green). The role satirized former Alaska governor Sarah Palin, and Friedman’s character humorously mentioned, “My dad is an accountant and my mom is the former governor of Alaska.”
Palin, whose son has Down syndrome, said the show is “not funny” and called it the result of “cruel, cold-hearted people,” to which Friedman responded by saying, “I guess former Gov. Palin doesn’t make sense.” of justice.” humor. I think the word is ‘sarcasm.'”
Photo by Chris Hatcher/Getty Images
Friedman emphasized that representation of the Down syndrome community should inspire others, stating, “In my family we believe in the power of laughter. “My parents taught me to have a sense of humor and to live a full life.”
His television repertoire included appearances on Baywatch, Touched by an angel, chicago hope, Seventh skyand emergencies. She was also the subject of the 2009 documentary. A possible dream: the story of Andrea Friedman. Her last on-screen role was in the 2019 Christmas drama. carol of the Bells.
Beyond acting, Friedman served as an assistant professor at UCLA’s Pathways program, where she helped students with intellectual disabilities. She is survived by her sister, her brother-in-law, two nephews and her father.
Friedman will forever be remembered for her advocacy and positive representation of people with Down syndrome in the media. Our deepest condolences to her fans and her family at this time.
Categories: Biography
Source: vcmp.edu.vn