Pioneering Actress with Down Syndrome, Andrea Fay Friedman, Dies at 53

Friedman, known for her role in 'Life Goes On', brought representation for the Down syndrome community to the screen and challenged stigmas throughout her career.

Andrea Fay Friedman, a pioneering actress with Down syndrome, has died at 53 due to complications from Alzheimer's.
Friedman was known for her role as Amanda Swanson on the TV series 'Life Goes On', which was the first major series to feature characters with Down syndrome.
Throughout her career, Friedman challenged stigmas and brought representation for the Down syndrome community to the screen, including a controversial role on 'Family Guy' where she humorously referenced Sarah Palin, whose son also has Down syndrome.
Friedman's last film project was 'Carol of the Bells', a film about a man's search for his birth mother who he learns has Down syndrome.
In addition to her acting career, Friedman also served as an assistant teacher at UCLA's Pathway Program.