Known for her role in Can’t Buy Me Love, Amanda Peterson passed away Sunday in Greeley, Colorado at the age of 43.
Peterson was discovered dead at her home by police officers after family members became worried from not hearing from her. Although the official cause of death has yet to be released, her father told TMZ that, “she had some illness and a sleep apnea problem that may have contributed.”
In the 1987 romantic comedy, which co-starred actor Patrick Dempsey, Peterson played the stereotypical blonde cheerleader role as Cindy Mancini. She also appeared in films including Joe Dante’s Explorers (1985), The Lawless Land (1988), Listen to Me (1989) and Windrunner (1994).
The actress, who was born in Greeley, made her first big Hollywood debut in John Huston’s adaptation of the musical film Annie when she was 9.
Peterson was awarded the Young Artist Award in the category of Best Young Actress Starring in a Television Drama Series for NBC’s Boone in 1986.
After 15 years in Hollywood, she decided to retire from show business and settle down in Colorado.
Peterson is survived by her husband David and their two children.
