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The Tragic Downfall: 5 Shocking Details About How Amanda Peterson Died And Her Life After 'Can't Buy Me Love'

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The legacy of Amanda Peterson, the iconic '80s teen movie star who charmed audiences as Cindy Mancini in the 1987 romantic comedy *Can't Buy Me Love*, continues to resonate, especially as fans look back on her tragically short life. As of December 25, 2025, the details surrounding her death and the difficult years she spent away from the spotlight offer a sobering look at the cost of early fame.

Peterson’s story is a heartbreaking narrative of a promising Hollywood career that faded, giving way to a private life fraught with personal struggles. She passed away in 2015, leaving behind a devoted family and a generation of fans who still cherish her work alongside co-star Patrick Dempsey.

Amanda Peterson: A Complete Biography and Filmography

Phyllis Amanda Peterson was born on July 8, 1971, in Greeley, Colorado. She began her career at a young age, quickly establishing herself as a talented and versatile actress. Her career trajectory peaked with her role as the popular cheerleader, Cindy Mancini, a character who became synonymous with '80s teen cinema.

  • Full Name: Phyllis Amanda Peterson
  • Born: July 8, 1971
  • Died: July 3, 2015 (Age 43)
  • Place of Death: Greeley, Colorado, U.S.
  • Cause of Death: Accidental Morphine Overdose
  • Spouses: Joseph Robert Skutvik (m. 1992; div. 1999), David Hartley (m. 2008; div. 2010), Jason Peterson (at the time of death)
  • Children: Two (from her marriage to David Hartley)
  • Parents: James Hill Peterson (Father) and Sylvia Peterson (Mother)

Key Filmography Highlights

Peterson's film career spanned over a decade, featuring roles that showcased her range from dramatic to comedic performances.

  • Annie (1982): Made her film debut as a dancer in the musical, directed by John Huston.
  • Explorers (1985): Played Lori Swenson, starring alongside Ethan Hawke and River Phoenix.
  • Can't Buy Me Love (1987): Her most iconic role as Cindy Mancini, the popular high school cheerleader.
  • The Lawless Land (1988): A more dramatic role in this action film.
  • Listen to Me (1989): Played Donna.
  • Windrunner (1994): Her final credited film role before retiring from acting.

The Heartbreaking Truth: Cause of Death and Final Days

Amanda Peterson was found dead in her Greeley, Colorado apartment on July 5, 2015. She had been reported missing after her family became concerned when they hadn't heard from her.

The Weld County Coroner's report later confirmed the tragic cause of death: an accidental morphine overdose.

The autopsy revealed that Peterson had ingested a "deadly combination of drugs" in the days leading up to her passing. This included a high level of morphine, along with other prescription medications like the anti-anxiety drug benzodiazapine, which contributed to her respiratory failure.

Her mother, Sylvia Peterson, shared that Amanda had been dealing with various health issues, including sleep apnea and lung problems, and had been prescribed multiple medications. The family also spoke out about the long, painful secret of her addiction and troubled past, which had plagued her life after she left Hollywood.

The news of her death, just five days before her 44th birthday, sent shockwaves through the Hollywood community and among fans of '80s cinema, highlighting the hidden struggles many child stars face after the spotlight fades.

A Troubled Past: Amanda Peterson's Life After Hollywood

After her last film credit in 1994, Amanda Peterson officially retired from acting and returned to her hometown of Greeley, Colorado. Her life post-Hollywood was anything but the fairy tale she portrayed on screen.

She attempted to pursue an education at Colorado State University and briefly explored a career as a writer, but her personal life became increasingly difficult.

The Downfall and Legal Issues

Peterson's struggles with addiction and mental health began to manifest publicly through a series of legal issues. Records show she was arrested multiple times over two decades in Colorado.

  • Her arrests included charges related to DUI (Driving Under the Influence), drug possession, and assault.
  • One of her most recent arrests before her death was in May 2012 on a DUI and drug paraphernalia charge.

Her family later revealed on the television show *The Doctors* that Amanda had been grappling with a "secret" troubled past, including periods of drug abuse and mental health crises, which they believe were connected to her early fame and the pressure of the entertainment industry.

Despite these challenges, her father, James Hill Peterson, emphasized that Amanda was a "very talented, very smart, very beautiful person" who had a loving heart and a deep desire to help others, even when she couldn't help herself.

The Lasting Legacy and Co-Star Tributes

Amanda Peterson's death prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from her former colleagues and the public, cementing her status as an unforgettable figure in pop culture.

Patrick Dempsey's Touching Message

Patrick Dempsey, who played the nerdy Ronald Miller who pays Cindy Mancini to be his girlfriend in *Can't Buy Me Love*, was among the first to publicly mourn his co-star.

Dempsey took to social media to share a touching message, expressing his sadness and remembering their time together on the film set. His tribute brought renewed attention to the film and Peterson's talent.

Neil Patrick Harris, another prominent child star from the era, also paid tribute to Peterson, acknowledging her impact on the generation of young actors who grew up in the 1980s.

An Enduring Icon

Even years after her passing, Amanda Peterson's work remains a staple of '80s nostalgia. *Can't Buy Me Love* is consistently celebrated for its charming take on high school hierarchy and the classic tale of a social climber. The film’s enduring popularity ensures that her portrayal of Cindy Mancini will continue to be discovered by new audiences.

The anniversary of her death continues to spark reflections on her life, with fans and family members leaving messages on her online obituary as recently as 2024, confirming that her beautiful spirit is "never forgotten."

Ultimately, the story of Amanda Peterson serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of life after child stardom, but her luminous presence on screen ensures that the memory of her talent will endure.

amanda peterson died
amanda peterson died

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