Charlotte Rae, renowned for her roles in “Diff’rent Strokes” and “The Facts of Life,” had a career spanning six decades. She gained fame as Mrs. Edna Garrett, becoming a beloved figure in American television.
Rae married John Strauss, a musician she met after college. Their relationship deepened Rae’s struggle with alcohol. Rae recalled, “He would say, ‘Why don’t we get a bottle instead of sitting by the bar?'” This habit worsened after the birth of their first son, Andrew, who was born with autism and a mental disability.
Strauss eventually revealed his bisexuality, ending their 25-year marriage. Rae felt profound betrayal, saying, “All I could feel was the betrayal and, worse than that, my shame.” Despite the pain, Rae and Strauss remained friends, understanding his struggles with his identity.
Rae faced significant challenges raising Andrew, who couldn’t speak until six and passed away at 44. Her second son, Larry, admired her relentless optimism: “She never gave up hope.” Larry, a dedicated teacher, carries his mother’s legacy of perseverance. In 2015, they co-authored her memoir, “The Facts of Life.” Rae passed away in 2018, but her impact endures through her family and work.
