It’s like a punch to the gut this morning: People magazine reports that Valerie Harper has terminal brain cancer. The multiple Emmy winner for “Rhoda,” Tony nominee for “Looped,” and great lady and friend to so many, seems too full of life to have it taken away. Still, her attitude in People is bright. Valerie has been a mover and shaker in the Screen Actors Guild, a tireless advocate for causes she believes in, and an all around champion. When she was fired from her own TV show, “Valerie,” by crazy producers, she fought back, sued them, and won. A versatile stage actress from Paul Sills’ “StoryTheater” in the late 60s, Valerie made the one of the most indelible impressions in cultural history as Rhoda Morgenstern. It’s a role she can’t shake, but who would want to? Rhoda was an iconic character that still–watch her now on DVD– steals the show. She tells like it is, just like Valerie. I know everyone will send prayers to Valerie, Tony, and their daughter Christina.
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