The veteran actress – who was best known for playing Mrs. Garrett in ‘Diff’rent Strokes’ and ‘The Facts of Life’ – passed away at the age of 92 on Sunday (05.08.18), her representatives have confirmed.
Charlotte revealed in April 2017 she had been diagnosed with bone cancer and admitted at the time she was unsure whether to seek treatment for the disease.
She said: “Last Monday, I found out I have bone cancer.
“About seven years ago, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer — which is a miracle that they found it because usually, it’s too late. My mother, sister, and my uncle died of pancreatic cancer.
“After six months of chemotherapy, I was cancer-free. I lost my hair, but I had beautiful wigs. Nobody ever knew. So now, at the age of 91, I have to make up my mind. I’m not in any pain right now. I’m feeling so terrific and so glad to be above ground. Now I have to figure out whether I want to go have treatment again or opt for life.
“I love life. I’ve had a wonderful one already … I’ve had a great life, but I have so many wonderful things happening. I’d like to choose life. I’m grateful for the life I’ve already had.”
Charlotte’s former ‘Facts of Life’ co-star, Kim Fields, has paid tribute to her on Twitter.
She posted: “you all already know my heart is heavy yet…. sorry, no words at the moment just love and tears… and yeah, smiles…. #charlotterae #ripcharlotterae.”
And actor Todd Bridges also used the microblogging site to share a heartfelt tribute to the ‘Pretty Little Liars’ actress.
He wrote: “Different Strokes would not have been the same without you #CharlotteRae. You were loved by everyone on our show and you were loved by everyone on the facts of life will miss you ‘My heart is full of Pain’ Rest in peace my friend.
Comedian Larry Wilmore reminisced about his first TV role being alongside Charlotte.
He shared a clip on his Twitter account and posted: “Saddened to hear about Charlotte Rae’s passing. My first tv gig a millennium of moons ago was on The Facts of Life. She was just the best and nicest lady. I look like I’m twelve playing a cop. RIP Ms. Rae.”