RIP Gary Coleman–Why are Child Stars/Teen Sensations Cursed?

“Whacha Talkin’ ‘Bout Willis?” was his trademark on “Diff’rent Strokes”, a popular sitcom of the late 70s to the mid-80s starring Conrad Baines of “Maude”, Dana Plato and Todd Bridges. I especially remembered his facial expression following that  abrupt question; like he just sucked lemons and his cheeks puffed out.

Since  television watching was somewhat restricted growing up (my father felt most shows on TV were inappropriate learning tools for my brother and I growing up; particularly sit coms), but he would allow from time to time if and only if if nothing else was on for the rest of the family. My father preferred if we were more avid readers and I was … just not my school books–Judy Bloom books were my thing.  I digress…

It was a favourite tv show when I grew up until I realized the concept of the show was all wrong, much like “Webster”, I guess.  That whole idea that black children could only have opportunities and affluence if they were saved by white families. The Cosby Show changed that in 84. Perhaps that’s the problem my Dad had with “Diff’rent Strokes” (and “Webster” for that matter). I wonder if he remembers?

When I came home and heard the news I was shocked, but then, perhaps I shouldn’t be. He was always sickly, which explained his small size and other issues he had growing up.

His ‘people’ , including his own parents were putting their own greedy interests before his 0wn and as such, during adulthood, was relegated to minimum wage type jobs, much like co-star, the late Dana Plato.  He also ended up on some episodes of those court tv shows, including having his divorce played out on “Divorce Court”. Sadly pathetic.

Todd Bridges, another co-star was a cocaine addict and had a violent life that was associated with such things.  From what I hear (grown!) he is now a born again Christian. I haven’t really read much on his recent years, so I’m hoping he’s not as much of a wingnut as Kirk Cameron, another former child star.

We see recent generations of these child stars/teen sensations and when they grow up, many of them really don’t function well as adults.  Those who did remain in the showbiz industry proved to have talent  when it was seen they were no longer cute, or like Drew Barrymore, come from a Hollywood dynasty family. Drew Barrymore for many years didn’t fair so well herself; drugs and alcohol did get the better of her.

I don’t know if there should be a ban on kids working regularly in show business or not, but, more seem to end up as downtrodden souls than actually being functional.

I think the main reason for this curse is not only a lack of proper parental or even adult supervision who put the kids’ welfare before the zeros at the end of their bottom line when they’re working.

I think it’s pretty dismal that no one is more disgusted at the idea of kids being used for endentured servitude, and I’m not just talking about show business, but in general and in any part of the world as well.

More about Gary Coleman’s life here.

And below is the theme song.  Sorry if it’s a cheesy earworm, but I always thought it was catchy.

Happy Friday Nite, All!