Kristy McNichol was born Christina Ann McNichol on September 11, 1962, in Los Angeles, California. She began her acting career at a young age, appearing in commercials and television guest spots. Her early work included appearances in shows like “Apple’s Way” and “Harry O.”
McNichol achieved widespread recognition for her role as Letitia “Buddy” Lawrence in the ABC television drama series “Family,” which aired from 1976 to 1980. Her portrayal of the teenage Buddy earned her two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 1977 and 1979.
Concurrent with her television success, McNichol transitioned to film, starring in a variety of roles. Her film debut was in “Black Sunday” (1977) in a small, uncredited role. She then starred in “Little Darlings” (1980), a coming-of-age film, which further solidified her popularity. Other notable film roles included “Only When I Laugh” (1981), for which she received a Golden Globe nomination, and “The Pirate Movie” (1982).
McNichol continued to work in television and film throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. She appeared in the television series “Empty Nest” from 1988 to 1995, although her appearances were intermittent due to health issues. In