Valerie Bertinelli Reflects on the Magic of “One Day At A Time” as Its 50th Anniversary Approaches
Valerie Bertinelli, the iconic star of the classic sitcom “One Day at a Time,” is gearing up to celebrate its monumental 50th anniversary this December. And let’s just say, the memories are still crystal clear! In her recent chat with Entertainment Weekly, Bertinelli reminisced about her early days on set, vividly recalling the magic that enveloped her at age 15 as she stepped into her character, Barbara, amid a live studio audience. “I remember standing at the apartment door and thinking, ‘This is gonna change my life,’” she said, capturing the essence of youth and hope intertwined with a blossoming career.
Developed by the legendary Norman Lear, “One Day at a Time” resonated with viewers for its fresh take on family dynamics, centering around a single mother navigating life with her two daughters post-divorce. Bertinelli highlighted the show’s unique charm, noting how she sensed its significance even in the early days. “I knew that was gonna be special… I wish I’d feel those feelings more,” she mused, adding that she finds similar joy on “The Drew Barrymore Show,” where she showcases her cooking chops and shares life advice.
In an emotional twist, Bertinelli acknowledged the bittersweet nature of cast reunions, especially as time marches on. With the losses of cherished co-stars like Bonnie Franklin and Pat Harrington Jr., she expressed a tinge of heartache when thinking about reuniting with her former on-screen family. “Anything I would do a reunion with, there’s some missing pieces,” she lamented. Yet, she still finds solace in the kindness of people within the industry, noting, “There are more kind people than you might believe.”
As featured in various outlets, Bertinelli continues to shine through her work, and she remains firmly in the spotlight well beyond her sitcom days. These powerful emotions showcase a profound connection between celebrities and their past experiences, a relatability that fans continuously cherish. Here’s hoping for a heartfelt reunion that honors all the laughter and love shared on the original series—after all, the nostalgia is what keeps us tuning in!
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and Entertainment Weekly, People Magazine, The Hollywood Reporter
