The cause of death of veteran American actress Shelley Fabares has been revealed, days after the star of The Donna Reed Show and Coach died at the age of 82.Fabares died of pneumonia on August 22 in Los Angeles, her family confirmed. She was surrounded by loved ones at the time of her death.Her family had initially announced her death without disclosing the cause. Fabares had a significant health history, including a diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis, and underwent a liver transplant in 2000.
Shelley Fabares’ cause of death
Fabares’ family confirmed pneumonia as the cause of death to PEOPLE several days after her passing. The revelation comes after initial reports said she had died following a brief illness.The actress had previously faced serious liver problems. Doctors diagnosed her with autoimmune hepatitis after years of health issues, eventually leading to severe liver deterioration and a transplant in 2000.
From ‘The Donna Reed Show’ to ‘Coach’
Fabares began her acting career as a child and rose to fame playing Mary Stone on The Donna Reed Show. The role made her a familiar face on American television during the late 1950s and 1960s.She also enjoyed a brief but successful music career. Her 1962 single “Johnny Angel” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.Fabares later appeared alongside Elvis Presley in three films — Girl Happy, Spinout and Clambake.Her career continued across television, with appearances in shows including One Day at a Time, The Rockford Files and Murder, She Wrote. She also appeared in the acclaimed television film Brian’s Song.
‘Coach’ brought her back into the spotlight
Fabares found another major television role in the sitcom Coach, where she played Christine Armstrong opposite Craig T. Nelson.She appeared on the series from 1989 to 1997 and received two Primetime Emmy nominations for her performance.Her career also extended beyond acting. Fabares became involved in fundraising and advocacy for Alzheimer’s research, a cause that had personal significance because of her mother’s illness.
Family remembers actress with warmth
Fabares was married to actor Mike Farrell, best known for his role as B.J. Hunnicutt on MASH*. The couple had been married for more than four decades.In a statement following her death, the family remembered Fabares as a source of love, strength, laughter and comfort, while highlighting her warmth, generosity and lasting relationships.She is survived by Farrell and her stepchildren.
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