The death of Dana Plato would have shocked many in the 1980s, but by the time she passed away in 1999, few were surprised. At just 34 years old, it was evident that she had followed a tragic path similar to many other child stars.
Despite her early success, Dana struggled with the pressures of instant fame. As a young teen, she began experimenting with drugs and alcohol, which eventually led to her dismissal from her role on Diff’rent Strokes. After that, she found it increasingly difficult to secure promising acting opportunities.
Her personal and financial troubles, coupled with ongoing substance abuse, led to a rapid decline. In the 1990s, Dana even faced legal issues, including a notable incident where she robbed a video store in Las Vegas.
This downward spiral culminated on May 8, 1999, when Dana died from a drug overdose while visiting family in Moore, Oklahoma. Initially thought to be an accident, her death was later ruled a suicide by a medical examiner.
This is the heartbreaking story of Dana Plato’s brief life and tragic end.
Dana Plato’s Early Rise To Fame
Dana Plato was born on November 7, 1964, in Maywood, California. Originally named Dana Michelle Strain, she was adopted by Dean and Kay Plato shortly after her birth. Growing up in the San Fernando Valley, Dana faced the divorce of her adoptive parents when she was just three years old.
After the split, Dana was primarily raised by her mother, who soon began taking her to casting calls. This effort led to several appearances in commercials, paving the way for her future in acting.
At just 13 years old, Dana received a life-changing opportunity to star in a TV sitcom. She accepted the role of Kimberly Drummond on the NBC show Diff’rent Strokes, which quickly became a massive success and made stars of its young cast, including Dana, Gary Coleman, and Todd Bridges.
However, with fame came the pitfalls of Hollywood. Dana began experimenting with alcohol, marijuana, and cocaine alongside her young co-stars. Lacking healthy coping mechanisms, she struggled to navigate the pressures of success.
In 1983, Dana moved in with her future husband, guitarist Lanny Lambert, and became pregnant around the age of 19 or 20. As a result, she was written out of Diff’rent Strokes the following year. According to USA Today, producers were concerned that her personal life was tarnishing the wholesome image of her character and the show itself.
Just like that, she lost her starring role.
