Lauren Chapin, child actress who played “Kathy Anderson” on Father Knows Best, is 77 years old today.
Chapin was nicknamed "Kitten" on Father Knows Best, which was produced between 1954 and 1960. Her co-stars in the series were Robert Young, Jane Wyatt, Elinor Donahue and Billy Gray.
Before, during and after the show was in its run, Chapin had a troubled childhood. Her father sexually abused her and her mother battled alcoholism. Following the cancellation of Father Knows Best, Chapin married at age 16, was divorced at 18, became a drug addict, turned to prostitution to secure her habit and was sent to a mental institution after she attempted suicide.
After these troubles, Chapin turned to religion in 1979, which she credits with saving her life. She currently manages singers and actors. She also performs in a live interactive version of Father Knows Best for cruise lines, conventions and other events.
She is the co-author of Father Does Know Best — The Lauren Chapin Story (1988) with Andrew Collins. Chapin is a licensed and ordained Christian evangelist and advocate for Israel. She is the younger sister of former child star, Billy Chapin.