’80s Actress Kristy McNichol Makes Rare Appearance With Carnie Wilson

Kristy McNichol made a rare appearance in a photo with Carnie Wilson — 25 years after the former child actress stepped away from the spotlight.

On July 20, the Wilson Phillips band member, 58, took to Facebook with a snapshot of herself and McNichol, 63, declaring, “Totally fan-girling!!!”

“Kris ( Kristy McNichol) was a part of my youth. I adored her in her movies…Especially Little Darlings and The End,” Phillips explained. “I told her how meaningful her movies are to me and my bestie @summercamp_ham and how we were JUST TALKING ABOUT HER ….and how special she is.”

To conclude her update, the daughter of the late Brian Wilson wrote, “What a gracious sweetie. She sure is loved,” alongside a string of heart emojis.

Facebook users rejoiced over the unexpected glimpse of McNichol, with one user exclaiming, “Kristy McNichol was one of my favorite actresses when I was younger! She looks great!”

Another confessed, “Always had a crush on her.”

Someone else shared, “I miss her on TV, but it’s good to hear she’s still doing well.”

Meanwhile, yet another Facebook follower commented, “I always adored Kristy. The girl next door. Smart, sassy and strong.”

McNichol is best known for portraying Angel in the 1980 film Little Darlings and Polly in 1981’s Only When I Laugh. Additionally, she won two Emmys for her role as Letitia “Buddy” Lawrence in Family from 1976 to 1980. Another memorable TV role was Barbara Weston in the Golden Girls spinoff Empty Nest.

In 2001, McNichol left the entertainment industry, a decision she addressed during a 2014 interview with People. “I was on the big stage between ages 8 and 30,” she explained. “I left show business for a variety of reasons, but a big one was my interest in learning what else there is in life.”

McNichol continued, “This phase of my life is so good. “My home life is happy and serene. I love singing. I also enjoy traveling and seeing the world.”