Kim Fields, Black Celebs React to Death of 'Facts of Life' Actress Charlotte Rae

Actress Charlotte Rae, best known for her role as house mother Edna Garrett on the 1980’s NBC sitcom The Facts of Life, has died. She was 92. She passed away Sunday in her Los Angeles home after a battle with bone cancer, according to the Associated Press. Rae originated the character in 1978 for the NBC comedy Diff’rent Strokes and then went on to play her for seven seasons on the show’s spin-off, The Facts of Life. She was a two-time nominee for both the Tony and Emmy Awards. Rae’s former Facts of Life costar Kim Fields took to Twitter to express her sadness: “You all already know my heart is heavy yet…. sorry, no words at the moment just love and tears… and yeah, smiles…” she tweeted. Todd Bridges, who costarred with Rae on Diff’rent Strokes, also shared his sadness, adding that the actress was “loved by everyone.” Other Black celebrities—including comedian Larry Wilmore, actress Holly Robinson Pete and Broadway star Audra McDonald—also took to social media to give their condolences and express their love for Rae.

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. https://t.co/7ef6hYZTHR

— Larry Wilmore (@larrywilmore) August 6, 2018

Love this recent pic of my mom and Charlotte Rae who just passed away at 92🙏🏽💔…what a beautiful woman who lived a robust and amazing life. Tremendous talent.
I am so proud to have met her.
Rest In Peace. #CharlotteRae #FactsOfLife #DifferentStrokes #MrsGarrett pic.twitter.com/WEscUUwhzu

— Holly Robinson Peete🧚🏽‍♂️ (@hollyrpeete) August 6, 2018

She was so sweet, funny, wise, lovely, and brilliant. She will be so missed. Rest In Peace Sweet Charlotte Rae. pic.twitter.com/c7OrehPeb0

— Audra McDonald (@AudraEqualityMc) August 6, 2018

Rest in peace.