Lauren Chapin dead: 'Father Knows Best,' "Star Is Born' actor was 80 - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Alexandra Del Rosario

February 25, 2026

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Lauren Chapin, the beloved actress known for her role as Kathleen "Kitten" Anderson in the classic sitcom *Father Knows Best*, has passed away at the age of 80 after a five-year battle with cancer. Her son, Matthew Chapin, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook, expressing his family's grief and asking for prayers during this difficult time. Chapin's life was marked by both professional success and personal struggles, including her candid memoir about abuse and addiction, which shed light on the challenges she faced off-screen. Born in Los Angeles in 1945, Chapin began her acting career in the 1950s, gaining widespread recognition for her role as the youngest daughter in *Father Knows Best*, a groundbreaking family sitcom that aired from 1954 to 1960. Her performance earned her five Junior Emmy Awards and solidified her place in television history. Beyond *Father Knows Best*, Chapin appeared in *A Star Is Born* and later reunited with her former co-stars in special episodes. After stepping away from acting for decades, she returned to the spotlight in the late 2010s with a role in the YouTube series *School Bus Diaries*. Off-screen, Chapin was a dedicated evangelist, using her platform to share her faith and engage in charitable work. She also worked as a talent agent, guiding rising stars like Jennifer Love Hewitt. Despite her professional achievements, Chapin's memoir *Father Knows Best: The Lauren Chapin Story* revealed the emotional and sexual abuse she experienced off-camera, as well as her struggles with drug addiction, suicide attempts, and legal issues. Her honesty about these challenges made her a compelling figure in entertainment history. Chapin's death is significant for fans of classic television and those interested in behind-the-scenes stories of resilience and perseverance. Her life serves as a reminder of the complexities faced by individuals in the public eye, as well as the strength it takes to navigate both personal and professional challenges. As news of her passing continues to be shared, Chapin's legacy as an actress and advocate for mental health awareness will undoubtedly resonate with audiences and admirers

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/25/2026