Who Is Rebecca Schaeffer? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on November 6, 1967, Rebecca Schaeffer was a promising American model and actress whose career was tragically cut short in 1989 when she was murdered at the age of 21. Known for her captivating roles in popular television series like "My Sister Sam," Schaeffer's talent and beauty garnered her a significant fan following. Her life story continues to resonate even in 2025, as her legacy is remembered and discussed in media and popular culture.
Occupation | Soap Opera Actress |
---|---|
Date of Birth | November 6, 1967 |
Age | 21 Years |
Birth Place | Eugene, Oregon, U.S. |
Horoscope | Scorpio |
Country | U.S |
Date of death | 18 July, 1989 |
Died Place | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Rebecca Schaeffer's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Though the information might be a bit dated, Rebecca Schaeffer's height was approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm), and her weight was around 130 lbs (59 kg) during her lifetime. Known for her striking features, she had measurements that fit the ideal standards of her modeling career, including a slim physique that contributed to her success in the fashion industry.
In late 1984, Schaeffer landed the role of Annie Barnes on ABC's One Life to Live for a stint that lasted six months. During this time, she attempted to further her modeling prospects. At 5ft 7in, she was considered too short for high-fashion modeling and struggled to find work.
In 1985, she moved to Japan in hopes of finding more modeling jobs, but still encountered difficulty due to her height and weight. She returned to New York City and decided to focus on an acting career.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Rebecca Schaeffer grew up in a close-knit family. Her father, an Allied soldier, had Polish heritage, while her mother worked as a writer. Regarding her personal life, Schaeffer had a romantic relationship with actor Brad Pitt, which drew significant media attention during the late 1980s. However, it's vital to note that romantic interests were often speculative and fueled by the media of that era. Throughout her short life, her relationships remained part of the public intrigue surrounding her image.
Benson Schaeffer, a child psychologist. Schaeffer was raised in Portland, where she attended Lincoln High School. She was raised Jewish and initially aspired to become a rabbi, but she began modeling during her junior year in high school. She appeared in department store catalogues and television commercials, and as an extra in a television film.
In 1984, when she was 16, she worked a summer in New York City with Elite Model Management and with her parents' permission stayed in the city to pursue modelling.
Net Worth and Salary
Due to the unfortunate and early end to her career, Rebecca Schaeffer's financial standing was never fully realized. In 2025, discussions surrounding her net worth often rely on her earnings during her lifetime. At the time of her death, it was estimated that she had a net worth of around $1 million, derived from her modeling and acting engagements. Although her estate may have seen some financial growth posthumously through various memorials and tributes, her earning potential was sadly cut short.
Career, Business and Investments
Rebecca Schaeffer's career began in modeling, where she quickly transitioned to acting. Her breakout role in "My Sister Sam" showcased her talent and led to various opportunities in film and television. Beyond acting, there are no substantial records of business ventures or investments attributed to her name. However, her influence on the industry and her legacy has paved the way for discussions around safety in Hollywood and the need for protective measures for performers.
Rebecca Lucile Schaeffer (November 6, 1967 – July 18, 1989) was an American actress and model. She began her career as a teen model before moving on to acting. In 1986, she landed the role of Patricia "Patti" Russell in the CBS comedy My Sister Sam.
The series was canceled in 1988, and she appeared in several films, including the black comedy Scenes from the Class Struggle in Beverly Hills. At the age of 21, she was shot and killed by Robert John Bardo, a 19-year-old obsessed fan who had been stalking her.
Schaeffer's death helped lead to the passage in California of legislation aimed at preventing stalking.
Social Network
Rebecca Schaeffer's presence on social media is nonexistent, given that she passed away before the advent of platforms like Facebook and Instagram. However, her legacy has been honored by fan pages and created content by admirers who seek to preserve her memory and contributions to entertainment. In 2025, discussions on social networks continue to keep her memory alive, with fans sharing her body of work and advocating for causes related to violence against women.
Education
Growing up in a supportive environment, Rebecca Schaeffer completed her education in Los Angeles. Although details about her academic pursuits are not heavily documented, her early focus on modeling and acting indicates a strong ambition to enter the entertainment industry directly after high school.
After My Sister Sam, Schaeffer had supporting roles in Scenes from the Class Struggle in Beverly Hills, Voyage of Terror: The Achille Lauro Affair, The End of Innocence, and the television film Out of Time. She also served as a spokesperson for the children's charity Thursday's Child.