'Life Goes On' Star Andrea Fay Friedman Passed Away after Months of Being Unable to Speak

Publish date: 2024-05-07

Andrea Fay Friedman of "Life Goes On" fame has passed away at 53. The actress lived the last few months of her life being unable to communicate.

Andrea Fay Friedman's journey toward success was an inspiring one. She didn't see her Down syndrome diagnosis as a hindrance to achieving her dreams, and she acted by playing characters with developmental disabilities.

Friedman, who rose to fame on "Life Goes On," died in her Santa Monica, California home on Sunday. She was only 53 at the time of her death, and her father spoke up after she died.

Andrea Fay Friedman at the International Film Festival and Forum at the ArcLight, Media Forum July 27, 2003 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

According to her dad, Hal Friedman, the actress' cause of death was complications of Alzheimer's disease. She had not been able to communicate with anyone in the past year due to the condition.

Born on June 1, 1970, Andrea found fame later in her life. She starred in 14 episodes of "Life Goes On" as Amanda Swanson, a series from 1992 to 1993.

Andrea Fay Friedman and Jim Sheridan at the International Film Festival and Forum at the ArcLight, Media Forum July 27, 2003 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

It opened doors for Andrea, who had several TV projects until 2019. She starred in the likes of "ER," "Family Guy," "Saving Grace," and "7th Heaven." Her last credit was for the movie "Carol of the Bells."

Andrea found her purpose in acting. She was always content with having one show each year. She once shared that it had always been the case for her.

Melissa Gilbert and Andrea Fay Friedman at the International Film Festival and Forum at the ArcLight, Media Forum July 27, 2003 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

The actress' dad, Hal, is greatly mourning the loss of his darling daughter. Caring for a child with Down Syndrome needs a lot of work, time, and dedication, and Hal made sure to be there for his daughter through it all.

Like Hal, Julie Newmar, 89, also remains a doting mom to her son with Down Syndrome. She lives with her son and continues to provide him with love and care daily.

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