Craig T. Nelson has paid tribute to his late co-star, Shelley Fabares, following her death at the age of 82. The beloved actress, who was known for her roles in several classic television series including The Donna Reed Show and One Day at a Time, passed away on August 22, as confirmed by her family.
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Fabares was celebrated for her multi-faceted career, which began in childhood. She not only gained acclaim for her acting but also achieved musical success with her hit song “Johnny Angel.” In addition to her memorable roles on television, she was cast alongside Elvis Presley in three films, showcasing her versatility as an entertainer.
Born to play the love interest of Nelson’s character, Hayden Fox, Fabares joined the cast of the ABC sitcom Coach when it premiered in 1989. The show followed the life of a college football coach and his eccentric team. Fabares portrayed Christine Armstrong, a TV news anchor who would eventually become Fox’s wife throughout the series’ nine seasons.
Upon learning of Fabares’ passing, Nelson described her as a “great and grand lady” who served as a source of support during their time working together on Coach. He reflected fondly on their shared experiences, stating, “Shelley was just a rock.” Nelson added, “I will miss her. She was a foundational part of my life during the run of Coach.”
Throughout her time on the show, Fabares found acclaim, having earned two Emmy nominations for her performances. Nelson praised her extraordinary spirit, emphasising her positivity and approachability, particularly amidst the hectic environment of a television set. “She was someone I could turn to for advice,” he remarked. “I’ll remember you with love, Shelley Fabares.”
Coach initially faced challenges in the ratings; however, its fortunes changed after the show was paired with Roseanne. The strategic move resonated with viewers, allowing the series to find a steady audience. Fabares previously spoke of her optimism for the show’s potential in a 1993 interview with the Los Angeles Times, expressing her belief in its lasting power once placed in the right slot.
Together, they contributed to the show’s legacy, which ultimately spanned over 200 episodes. During the course of the series, Fabares often reflected upon what an enriching experience it was to be part of the ensemble. She conveyed to the That’s Classic podcast in 2024 that she had been eager to work again after a brief hiatus from acting prior to being cast in Coach. “If someone were to ask me what kind of show I would like to do, I would have expressed what Coach was, not even dreaming I would get that role,” she said.
Fabares also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of her co-stars, particularly mentioning late actor Jerry Van Dyke. She recalled the joy he brought to rehearsals, highlighting the laughter they shared. Van Dyke portrayed Luther Van Dam, the team’s defensive coordinator, a role inspired by his comedic style.
Shelley Fabares leaves behind a rich legacy that extends beyond her individual roles, impacting both her colleagues and the audiences captivated by her performances. Her passing marks the end of an era for many who have fond memories of her career and her significant contributions to the entertainment landscape.
As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that Fabares will be remembered not only for her talent but also for the warmth and camaraderie she offered to those in her life. Nelson’s heartfelt words serve as a reminder of the incredible bond formed between cast members as they navigated the ups and downs of producing a beloved sitcom.