Who Was Melanie Watson? 5 Things About the ‘Diff’rent Strokes’ Actress Who Died

The late ‘Diff’rent Strokes’ cast member died at the age of 57 in December 2025. Learn everything to know about her, including the genetic disease she lived with, here.
Houston Public Media

More young adults are having strokes. The medical field is playing catch-up

Singer and actor Donald Glover made headlines when he announced that, at age 42, he had a stroke in 2024. A CDC study found the number of younger adults having strokes in rising.

Melanie Watson Dies: ‘Diff’rent Strokes’ Actress Was 57

Melanie Watson, who was known for her guest role on Diff’rent Strokes, has died. She was 57. The actress died on Friday in Colorado Springs following a recent hospitalization for bleeding, her brother Robert Watson told TMZ.

‘Diff’rent Strokes’ Actress Melanie Watson Dies at 57

The former child star’s brother confirmed she died Friday in Colorado Springs after being hospitalized earlier in the week.
Knowridge Science Report

Common gout drug may help prevent heart attacks and strokes

A widely used and affordable medication for gout might also help reduce heart attacks and strokes in people with heart disease. This surprising benefit comes from a new review published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
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