"Different Strokes" Child Star Gary Coleman Dies at Age 42
The 70's sitcom, Different Strokes initially was shocking for many because of the story line. Feelings about a rich white man with a daughter of his own who adopts two young black boys and raises them as his own was a touchy subject. Back then there was still a lot of racial tension. But the show quickly became a smash hit, and many a people from that era may agree and believe it actually helped break some of the barriers and changed one's thinking. It was brilliant, through entertainment and laughter we learned.
Kimberly (Dana Plato) and her new brothers, Willis (Todd Bridges) and Arnold (Gary Coleman) kept us laughing, but more importantly they sent a positive message. The show enabled us to accept and even embrace change, at a time when many where struggling to keep the races separated Different Strokes crossed the line and forced viewers to accept the fact that not only can people of different colors live together, but they can love and care for each other.
Gary Coleman suffered with medical problems during his life, he even endured some legal problems, but he was a fighter. Some might say he was cocky, rude or arrogant, in my humble opinion, he was a young man who despite his physical height and illnesses held his head high, kept his shoulders squared, stood tall and spoke his mind.
The sudden death of Different Strokes star, Gary Coleman, is shocking and saddening for many. His memory will live on forever, and when we hear that little voice in our head saying, "What choo talkin bout Willis" it will make us smile all over again.
Published by Ms. Marie
Ms. Marie is a determined individual, she is an honest, hard working, dependable person. Her love and respect for people keeps her grounded. She is always willing to help others, yet understands that everyon... View profile
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6 Comments
Post a CommentYes, it is sad, hopefully he is at peace now.
Such a sad event. Nicely written.
A nice tribute for his tragid end.
Rest in Peace Gary Coleman...you were a very talented man, born with health problems and still prevailed in your acting career, inspite of the racism and prejudges you've had to deal with in Hollywood, you were still a "STAR"
What do you mean back then there was still racial tension, there are still a world full of stupid idiots that think they are god and actually play god, but they don't believe in god because if they did they wouldn't dislike people because of the color of their skin, and most importantly people that had no control over what color they were going to be. Most important (rest in peace Gary Coleman).
It's a shame he died so young. It sucks that people who picked on him throughout his life are now taking the time to appreciate his talents now that he's gone. People seem to have tremendous respect for the dead, but none for the living. Good article though, and kudos to you for saying he was a fighter.