kids encyclopedia robot

Pam Potillo facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Pam Potillo
Born
Pamela Potillo

(1968-12-23) December 23, 1968 (age 56)
Occupation Actress and voice-over artist
Years active 1984–present
Spouse(s) Robert Dorman, divorced
Children 1 daughter

Pamela Potillo, born on December 23, 1968, in Trenton, New Jersey, is an American actress. She is widely recognized for her role as Janet on the popular TV show The Cosby Show, where she appeared from 1985 to 1990.

Pam Potillo's Acting Journey

Early Career in Television

Pamela Potillo grew up in New Jersey. She started her career early as a host on a children's news show called Wonderama. This show aired on weekend mornings on WNEW-TV. She was a co-host on Wonderama from 1980 to 1987, helping to deliver news and fun segments to young viewers.

Stepping onto the Stage and Screen

In 1984, Pam made her first appearance on Broadway, which is the highest level of theater in New York City. She played the character Georgia Jones in a play called Open Admissions.

She became well-known for her recurring role on The Cosby Show. She played Janet Meiser, who was a friend of Vanessa Huxtable, one of the main characters. Pam appeared in this popular sitcom from 1985 to 1990. She also acted alongside famous stars like Ben Affleck and Madeline Kahn in an episode of the ABC Afterschool Special, a series known for its educational and family-friendly stories.

Education and Learning

Beyond her acting career, Pam Potillo also focused on her education. She earned her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree from Rutgers University. Later, she continued her studies and received a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree from Pepperdine University.

Pam Potillo's Filmography

TV Shows and Movies

Pamela Potillo has appeared in various television shows and movies throughout her career. Here are some of her notable roles:

  • 1980–1987: Wonderama as Herself/co-host (Morning kids' show)
  • 1984: A Doctor's Story (TV movie) as Carla (Her first acting role)
  • 1984–1985: ABC Weekend Special as Leslie Thorton/Lizbeth Collins (Appeared in 2 episodes)
  • 1985–1990: The Cosby Show as Janet Meiser (Appeared in 10 episodes)
  • 1986: My Little Girl as Georgia (Her first film role)
  • 1986–1990: ABC Afterschool Special as Kate / Melanie (Appeared in 2 episodes)
  • 1987: Spenser: For Hire as Jessie Braxton (Episode: "One for My Daughter")
  • 1987–1988: Charles in Charge as Lisa Taylor / 'Baby Doll' (Appeared in 3 episodes)
  • 1995: And the Children Shall Lead as Rachel Henderson (TV movie)
kids search engine
Pam Potillo Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.