Life Goes On: What The Cast Of The Series With Down Syndrome Did Next

What becomes of a groundbreaking television series, and more importantly, the individuals who brought it to life? The legacy of "Life Goes On," a show that fearlessly tackled societal norms by featuring an actor with Down syndrome in a leading role, continues to resonate, and the lives of its cast members offer a compelling glimpse into the power of representation and the passage of time.

The series, which aired on ABC from September 12, 1989, to May 23, 1993, centered around the Thatcher family residing in suburban Chicago. At the heart of the narrative was Charles "Corky" Thatcher, portrayed by Chris Burke, an actor who, like his character, has Down syndrome. The show's focus wasn't solely on Corky's diagnosis; instead, it portrayed his experiences, aspirations, and relationships as he navigated life, attending high school, pursuing employment, and forming friendships. This representation was groundbreaking, as it presented a character with Down syndrome not as a problem to be solved, but as a fully realized individual deserving of respect and opportunity. The program boldly tackled the challenges of integrating individuals with disabilities into mainstream society, creating a narrative that resonated with viewers from all walks of life. The series was a bold experiment, a heartfelt drama, and an unprecedented exploration of family dynamics, all woven into one. The Thatcher's strived to integrate Corky in a world that often overlooked the very people who deserved a place there.

Chris Burke's portrayal of Corky was lauded for its authenticity and charm. Having Down syndrome himself, Burke brought a depth and realism to the role that resonated deeply with audiences. He wasn't simply acting; he was representing his own lived experiences, conveying the joys, frustrations, and complexities of life with a disability. His work was inspiring, as he was able to connect with the masses and allow them an access into his world. Moreover, Burke's success paved the way for greater representation of actors with disabilities in the entertainment industry, and provided hope and a voice for those who were often overlooked. Burke opened the doors for many others to make their mark on the world of acting. He became a symbol of hope for many, showing the world that anything is possible.

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The series was not only focused on Corky. The narrative also provided the opportunity to reflect on the lives of the Thatcher family, namely Drew, the supportive father, played by Bill Smitrovich; Elizabeth, the patient mother, played by Patti LuPone; and Corky's siblings, Paige (Monique Lanier) and Rebecca (Kellie Martin). The family faced the same challenges and celebrated the same triumphs as any other family, but the experience was made that much more impactful when they had to navigate the struggles of Corky living with Down syndrome. The series gave a much needed face to the challenges of Down syndrome, but also the triumphs, and the series was a clear example of how much can be achieved by someone given an equal playing field.

Bill Smitrovich, in his role as Drew Thatcher, became an advocate for people with Down syndrome in his own right. His commitment to raising public consciousness regarding Down syndrome extended beyond the screen. Smitrovich's involvement in the "Life Goes On Celebrity Golf Classic," an event benefiting the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles, demonstrated his dedication to supporting the community and raising awareness. He continued to be one of the many heroes of the series, as he took the lessons and message and implemented them into his daily life. It was a true representation of how impactful the show was.

Kellie Martin, who played Corky's sister Rebecca, also saw her career flourish. Her breakthrough role came with "Life Goes On," but her career continued to evolve. While the early 1990s was a monumental period in the entertainment industry, Martin was able to parlay her success to establish a career that continues to thrive today, and she is still a fan favorite. Her ability to portray Rebecca, with her love, patience and understanding for her brother, was a true reflection of her character in real life. It was that level of authenticity that made the show what it was, and that contributed to the popularity of Kellie Martin.

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The storyline in "Life Goes On" often dealt with the Thatcher family attempting to integrate Corky into society. He was given a job at a local movie theater and explored the world of dating. It was these very real-world challenges that connected with audiences so effectively. They saw themselves and their own families, in the struggles and triumphs that the Thatcher family went through. The show's success lay in its ability to balance humor and drama, and it never shied away from the real experiences of people living with Down syndrome. The show addressed all the obstacles, with a focus on kindness and understanding.

The series created a precedent for the future, demonstrating the power of inclusive casting and storytelling. It showed the world that a show could be both popular and meaningful. The show also demonstrated that people were hungry for representation, and hungry to have their experiences and the experiences of those around them reflected on the screen. The show's legacy extended beyond the screen, prompting conversations about disability rights and inclusion. The show inspired many to see the value in the lives of those who had been overlooked, and the show had a ripple effect that can still be felt today. The show paved the way for more actors and actresses with disabilities to receive the opportunities they deserved.

The show, now considered a groundbreaking series, still continues to be celebrated. The cast members and their impact on the audience has not been lost in the passage of time. The message of the show continues to be a relevant and needed message in todays world, and it will be interesting to watch the ripple effect continue to grow.

The exploration into the lives of the cast members, as well as the legacy of the show, continues to be a conversation that is held by many, and will continue to be held for generations to come. The series continues to teach us the values of kindness, respect, and the importance of understanding, and that message will continue to influence people for many years to come.