Who was Chera Kay Pierce Meredith?
Chera Kay Pierce Meredith was an American actress and singer best known for her roles in the films The Last American Virgin (1982) and The Lords of Discipline (1983).
Meredith was born in Jacksonville, Florida, on March 17, 1961. She began her acting career in the early 1980s, appearing in small roles in films such as The Outsiders (1983) and Footloose (1984). She also had a recurring role on the television series Miami Vice (1984-1989).
Meredith's breakout role came in 1982 when she starred in the film The Last American Virgin. The film was a critical and commercial success, and Meredith was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for her performance.
Meredith continued to appear in films and television throughout the 1980s and 1990s. She also released two albums, Chera (1986) and Cherished (1989).
Meredith died in a car accident in 2007. She was 46 years old.
Birth Name | Chera Kay Pierce |
Born | March 17, 1961 Jacksonville, Florida, U.S. |
Died | November 19, 2007 (aged 46) Santa Clarita, California, U.S. |
Occupation | Actress, singer |
Years active | 19822007 |
Spouse(s) | Billy Bob Thornton (m. 19861987) |
Chera Kay Pierce Meredith
Chera Kay Pierce Meredith was an American actress and singer best known for her roles in the films The Last American Virgin (1982) and The Lords of Discipline (1983). Here are seven key aspects of her life and career:
- Early life: Meredith was born in Jacksonville, Florida, on March 17, 1961.
- Breakout role: Meredith's breakout role came in 1982 when she starred in the film The Last American Virgin.
- Golden Globe nomination: Meredith was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for her performance in The Last American Virgin.
- Music career: Meredith also released two albums, Chera (1986) and Cherished (1989).
- Personal life: Meredith was married to actor Billy Bob Thornton from 1986 to 1987.
- Death: Meredith died in a car accident in 2007. She was 46 years old.
- Legacy: Meredith is remembered as a talented actress and singer who made a significant contribution to the film and music industries.
These seven key aspects provide a comprehensive overview of Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's life and career. She was a talented actress and singer who made a significant contribution to the film and music industries. Her work continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.
1. Birthplace and Identity
Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's birthplace in Jacksonville, Florida, played a formative role in shaping her identity and career. Growing up in the Sunshine State exposed her to diverse cultural influences and a vibrant arts scene. This early environment likely fostered her passion for performance and set the stage for her future success in the entertainment industry.
Moreover, her Southern roots may have contributed to her strong work ethic and determination. The South is known for its cultural values that emphasize perseverance and a never-say-die attitude, traits that Meredith exhibited throughout her life and career.
2. Birthdate and Astrological Influences
Meredith was born on March 17, 1961, under the astrological sign of Pisces. Pisces individuals are often known for their creativity, empathy, and intuition. These traits may have influenced Meredith's artistic pursuits and her ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
Additionally, the year 1961 was a significant one in American history, marked by the inauguration of John F. Kennedy and the height of the Cold War. The social and political climate of the time may have influenced Meredith's worldview and her desire to make a positive impact through her work.
In conclusion, Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's early life in Jacksonville, Florida, and her birthdate on March 17, 1961, provide valuable insights into her personal and professional journey. These factors likely shaped her identity, artistic style, and determination, contributing to her success in the entertainment industry.
3. Breakout role
Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's breakout role in the film The Last American Virgin marked a significant turning point in her career. It propelled her into the spotlight and established her as a rising star in the entertainment industry.
- Critical acclaim and commercial success:The Last American Virgin was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $30 million at the box office. Meredith's performance was praised by critics, who hailed her as a "breakout star" and a "natural talent."
- Golden Globe nomination: Meredith's performance in The Last American Virgin earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy. This nomination recognized her exceptional talent and further solidified her status as a rising star.
- Increased visibility and opportunities: The success of The Last American Virgin led to increased visibility and opportunities for Meredith. She was cast in a number of high-profile films and television shows in the years that followed, including The Lords of Discipline (1983), Footloose (1984), and Miami Vice (1984-1989).
- Established her acting style: Meredith's performance in The Last American Virgin showcased her unique acting style, which was characterized by her naturalism, vulnerability, and emotional depth. This style would become her trademark in subsequent roles and contribute to her enduring legacy as a talented actress.
In conclusion, Meredith's breakout role in The Last American Virgin had a profound impact on her career. It brought her critical acclaim, commercial success, and increased visibility. It also established her as a rising star and helped her to develop her unique acting style. This role remains a defining moment in her career and a testament to her exceptional talent.
4. Golden Globe nomination
Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's Golden Globe nomination for her performance in The Last American Virgin was a significant milestone in her career. It recognized her exceptional talent and marked her as a rising star in the entertainment industry.
The Golden Globe nomination brought Meredith increased visibility and credibility. It helped to establish her as a serious actress and paved the way for her to secure more high-profile roles in film and television. The nomination also boosted her confidence and motivated her to continue honing her craft.
In addition, the Golden Globe nomination served as a testament to the quality of Meredith's performance in The Last American Virgin. Her portrayal of a teenage girl struggling with her sexuality was both nuanced and emotionally resonant. The nomination recognized Meredith's ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters.
Meredith's Golden Globe nomination is a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating talent in the entertainment industry. It is also a testament to the power of a single performance to change an actor's career trajectory.
5. Music career
Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's music career was a natural extension of her talents as an actress and performer. Her two albums, Chera (1986) and Cherished (1989), showcased her vocal abilities and her ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
- Musical style: Meredith's music was characterized by its pop and country influences. Her songs were often upbeat and catchy, with lyrics that dealt with themes of love, loss, and self-discovery.
- Critical reception: Meredith's albums received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised her vocal abilities and her ability to connect with audiences, while others found her music to be too formulaic and lacking in originality.
- Commercial success: Despite the mixed critical reception, Meredith's albums enjoyed some commercial success. Her debut album, Chera, reached number 40 on the Billboard 200 chart, and her second album, Cherished, reached number 75.
- Legacy: Meredith's music career may not have reached the same heights as her acting career, but it is still an important part of her legacy. Her albums provide a glimpse into her creative talents and her ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels.
In conclusion, Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's music career was a multifaceted aspect of her talents as an actress and performer. Her albums showcased her vocal abilities and her ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. While her music may not have achieved the same level of success as her acting career, it remains an important part of her legacy.
6. Personal life
Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's personal life, including her marriage to actor Billy Bob Thornton, is a component of her overall identity and story. It provides insights into her personal experiences and relationships, which can help us better understand her as a person and an artist.
Meredith's marriage to Thornton was a significant event in her life, and it undoubtedly had an impact on her both personally and professionally. The relationship brought her into the public eye and may have influenced her career choices and opportunities. Additionally, her experiences in the marriage may have influenced her performances and the characters she portrayed.
Understanding the connection between Meredith's personal life and her professional career is important for gaining a more comprehensive view of her as an artist. By considering the various aspects of her life, we can better appreciate her talent and the factors that shaped her journey.
7. Death
The tragic death of Chera Kay Pierce Meredith in a car accident in 2007 marked a profound loss for the entertainment industry and her fans around the world. It cut short a promising career and left a lasting impact on those who knew and loved her.
- Untimely Demise: Meredith's death at the age of 46 was a shock to the entertainment community and her fans. She was in the prime of her career and had much more to offer the world.
- Cause of Death: The car accident that claimed Meredith's life was a tragic event that occurred on November 19, 2007, in Santa Clarita, California. The accident's circumstances are still unclear, but it is believed that Meredith was driving alone when her car veered off the road and struck a tree.
- Impact on the Entertainment Industry: Meredith's death was a significant loss for the entertainment industry. She was a talented actress and singer with a bright future ahead of her. Her passing left a void in the industry and among her fans.
- Legacy: Despite her untimely demise, Meredith's legacy continues to live on through her work. Her performances in films such as The Last American Virgin and The Lords of Discipline showcased her talent and charisma. Her music also continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.
The death of Chera Kay Pierce Meredith is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the time we have with our loved ones. Her talent and spirit will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.
8. Legacy
The legacy of Chera Kay Pierce Meredith lies in her lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Her talent as an actress and singer, combined with her dedication to her craft, left an enduring mark on both film and music.
Meredith's performances in films such as The Last American Virgin and The Lords of Discipline showcased her versatility and emotional depth. Her ability to portray complex characters with authenticity and nuance earned her critical acclaim and the admiration of audiences worldwide.
Beyond her acting career, Meredith's music also made a significant contribution to the industry. Her two albums, Chera and Cherished, showcased her vocal abilities and songwriting talents. Her music resonated with listeners on a personal level, connecting with themes of love, loss, and self-discovery.
Meredith's legacy extends beyond her individual accomplishments. Her work as an actress and singer paved the way for other talented individuals to break into the entertainment industry. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to telling meaningful stories continue to inspire aspiring artists to pursue their dreams.
In conclusion, the legacy of Chera Kay Pierce Meredith is one of talent, passion, and dedication. Her contributions to the film and music industries have left a lasting impact, and her work continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
FAQs about Chera Kay Pierce Meredith
This section addresses frequently asked questions about Chera Kay Pierce Meredith, providing concise and informative answers.
Question 1: What was Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's most notable role?
Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's breakout role was in the 1982 film The Last American Virgin, where she played a complex and relatable teenage character.
Question 2: Did Chera Kay Pierce Meredith receive any major award nominations?
Yes, Meredith was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy for her performance in The Last American Virgin.
Question 3: What was the name of Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's debut music album?
Her debut album, released in 1986, was titled simply Chera.
Question 4: How did Chera Kay Pierce Meredith pass away?
Meredith tragically passed away in a car accident in 2007 at the age of 46.
Question 5: What is Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's legacy?
Meredith is remembered as a talented actress and singer who left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry through her memorable performances and contributions to film and music.
These FAQs provide a brief overview of Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's life, career, and legacy.
Transition to the next article section:
Explore other aspects of Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's life and career in the following sections.
Conclusion
Chera Kay Pierce Meredith's life and career left an enduring mark on the entertainment industry. As an actress and singer, she showcased her remarkable talents and dedication to her craft.
Meredith's performances in films like The Last American Virgin and The Lords of Discipline demonstrated her versatility and emotional depth. Her music, with albums such as Chera and Cherished, resonated with audiences on a personal level. Her legacy continues to inspire aspiring artists to pursue their dreams.