Annette Charles was an American actress who is best known for Grease, In Search of Historic Jesus, and The Bionic Woman.
Personal and Family Life
Annette Charles was born on March 5, 1948, in Los Angeles, California. She was married to Robert Romeo until her death on August 3, 2011. During her career, she performed at the White House for President Ronald Reagan in 1983. Despite facing personal health challenges, she made significant contributions to the entertainment industry.
Health Challenges
While filming the Thunder Road sequence in Grease, Annette experienced severe pain due to a tubal pregnancy, which made it difficult for her to perform. She filmed her scenes despite the pain and was rushed to the hospital for surgery right after her work was completed. This determination demonstrated her commitment to her craft and dedication to her role.
Death and Legacy
Annette Charles passed away on August 3, 2011, in Los Angeles due to lung cancer, despite never being a smoker. She was the third young cast member from Grease to have died, following Jeff Conaway and Dennis Stewart. Her legacy continues to be celebrated, and her role as Cha Cha in Grease remains iconic.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Grease | 1978-07-07 | Cha Cha DiGregorio |
| In Search of Historic Jesus | 1979-08-01 | Mary Magdalene |
| Can You Hear the Laughter? The Freddie Prinze Story | 1979-09-11 | Billy |
| Latino | 1985-02-28 | Marlena (as Annette Cardona) |
| Transylmania | 2009-12-04 | Administrator |
| The Grease Story | 2017-11-05 | Charlene DiGregorio |
| Musical Comedy Tonight II | 1981-02-11 | Self |
| Man From Atlantis: The Death Scouts | 1977-04-22 | Ginny Mendoza |
| Banacek | 1972-09-13 | Cecelia Gomez |