Kristy McNichol, Family, and Empty Nest
Kristy McNichol came into the 80’s as a tomboyish teen with the show, Family, and exited that fine decade portraying a neighbor of the The Golden Girls on Empty Nest.
I was a bit young when Family started, but do remember McNichol on the show, and just thinking that she was the coolest girl ever! She had that shiny, straight hair that I so desperately wanted, and really I don’t remember a ton more about her. I am curious as to why she’s the only one smiling in this photo. Was there something I don’t remember from the plot of the show that she was the only one allowed to show cheer?
I was so excited when she started on Empty Nest (also starring Richard Mulligan and Dinah Manoff). As it turns out, her character (Barbara Weston) seemed a little less cool, and was constantly fighting with her sister. I did like the show, but sisters fighting was an experience I could get on my own everyday.
Anyway, various sites report that McNichol is now intentionally living her life out of the spotlight, in part to keep herself healthy. I can’t imagine it’s all that easy, having once been a superstar and idol for so many, but I do wish her the best, and say “Thanks for sharing that part of your life with us!”
Do you have favorite Kristy McNichol memories?
photo credit: NNDB
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