Joanna Kerns, born Joanna Crussie DeVarona, on December 12, 1953, in San Francisco, California, is widely known for her role as the loving mother Maggie Seaver in the hit television series Growing Pains. However, before she embarked on her successful acting career, Kerns had a passion for dance. She attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she studied and trained extensively in dance, ultimately majoring in the art form.
Kerns made her big screen debut in the 1976 film A*P*E. Although her role in the film was small, it marked the beginning of her acting career. She went on to appear in various television shows and movies throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, steadily building her reputation as a talented actress.
It wasn't until Kerns landed the role of Maggie Seaver in the popular family sitcom Growing Pains that she became a household name. The show, which aired from 1985 to 1992, was a massive success, and Kerns' portrayal of the matriarch of the Seaver family earned her critical acclaim and fan adoration.
On a personal note, Kerns married fellow actor Richard Kerns, best known for his role as Tim Taylor's friend on the sitcom Home Improvement, in 1976. The couple welcomed a daughter named Ashley before eventually divorcing in 1985. Despite their separation, Kerns and Kerns remained amicable for the sake of their daughter.
Following the end of Growing Pains, Kerns continued to act in various television shows and films. In 2007, she appeared in the comedy Knocked Up, starring alongside Katherine Heigl as her character's mother. The film was a critical and commercial success, further solidifying Kerns' reputation as a talented actress.
Throughout her career, Kerns has been praised for her versatile performances and her ability to bring depth and emotion to her characters. Her portrayal of Maggie Seaver in Growing Pains remains one of her most iconic roles, and she is fondly remembered by fans of the show.
Joanna Kerns' journey from a dance student at UCLA to a beloved television actress is a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft. Her contributions to the world of entertainment live on through her memorable performances and enduring legacy.