Introduction
Wendie Jo Sperber was an American actress who rose to fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s. She appeared in several popular movies and TV shows, including “Bosom Buddies,” “Back to the Future,” and “Private Benjamin.” Despite her successful career, Sperber’s life was cut short at the age of 47 due to complications from breast cancer. In this biography, we will take a closer look at her life, career, and tragic death.
Early Life and Career
Wendie Jo Sperber was born on September 15, 1958, in Hollywood, California. She began her acting career in the late 1970s, appearing in several TV shows and movies. Her breakout role came in 1980 when she starred alongside Tom Hanks in the sitcom “Bosom Buddies.” The show was a hit and helped to launch Sperber’s career. She went on to appear in several movies, including “1941,” “Back to the Future,” and “I Wanna Hold Your Hand.”
Despite her success, Sperber was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997. She underwent treatment and continued to work, but her health began to decline in the early 2000s. She passed away on November 29, 2005, at the age of 47.
Personal Life
Sperber was married to Richard Velasquez from 1983 until her death in 2005. The couple had two children together, a son named Preston and a daughter named Pearl. Sperber was also a breast cancer activist and founded the weSPARK Cancer Support Center in Los Angeles in 2001. The center provides support to cancer patients and their families.
Notable Movies and TV Shows
Bosom Buddies
Sperber played the role of Amy Cassidy in the hit sitcom “Bosom Buddies” from 1980 to 1982. The show followed the lives of two men who dress up as women to live in an all-female apartment complex. Sperber’s character was the best friend of one of the main characters and provided comic relief throughout the series.
Back to the Future
Sperber played the role of Linda McFly, the sister of the main character Marty McFly, in the hit movie “Back to the Future.” The movie was a huge success and spawned two sequels. Sperber’s character was a minor role, but she provided a memorable performance.
Private Benjamin
Sperber played the role of Pvt. Carol Winter in the hit movie “Private Benjamin.” The movie was a critical and commercial success and earned Sperber a nomination for a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture.
Death and Legacy
Sperber passed away on November 29, 2005, at the age of 47 due to complications from breast cancer. She was survived by her husband and two children. Sperber’s legacy lives on through her work as an actress and her advocacy for breast cancer awareness. The weSPARK Cancer Support Center that she founded continues to provide support to cancer patients and their families.
Wendie Jo Sperber was a talented actress who left a lasting impression on the entertainment industry. Her performances in movies and TV shows continue to be enjoyed by audiences today, and her advocacy for breast cancer awareness has helped to save countless lives. She will always be remembered as a beloved actress and a champion for those affected by cancer.
