Erin Moran was an American actress who is best known for her role as Joanie Cunningham on the popular TV show Happy Days, as well as its spin-off Joanie Loves Chachi. Born on October 18, 1960, in Burbank, California, she became a recognizable face in American television from a young age.
Personal and Family Life
Erin Marie Moran was the youngest of six children born to Sharon Jo Layne and Edward Earl Moran Jr. She attended Walter Reed Junior High School and North Hollywood High School. Erin was married twice; her first marriage to Rocky Ferguson lasted from 1987 to 1993, and she later married Steven Fleischmann in 1993, whom she was with until her death in 2017. The couple did not have any children.
Career Highlights
Erin’s acting career began with a TV commercial and continued with her role as the younger sister on Daktari before achieving fame on Happy Days. After the show’s end in 1984, she appeared in various shows, including guest spots on scripted and reality TV. Despite struggling to find work as an adult actress, she remained a beloved figure for her early work.
Death and Legacy
Erin Moran passed away on April 22, 2017, at age 56 due to complications from throat cancer. She lived in Corydon, Indiana, at the time of her death with her husband. Her legacy continues through her iconic role on Happy Days, leaving a lasting impact on fans of classic television.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star | 2003-09-04 | Self |
| Galaxy of Terror | 1981-10-01 | Alumna |
| Watermelon Man | 1970-05-27 | Janice Gerber |
| 80 Steps to Jonah | 1969-12-01 | Kim |
| Joanie Loves Chachi | 1982-03-23 | Joanie Cunningham |
| Happy Days | 1974-01-15 | Joanie Cunningham |
| Daktari | 1966-01-11 | Jenny Jones |
| Celebrity Ghost Stories | 2009-10-03 | Self |
| Diagnosis: Murder | 1993-10-29 | Cynthia Bennett |
| The Love Boat | 1977-09-24 | Various Characters |