Christopher Templeton, who played the role of Carol Robbins Evans on the popular soap opera The Young and the Restless, passed away on February 15, 2011, at the age of 58. She was a talented actress, a disability advocate, and a charity fundraiser. Her cause of death was metastatic breast cancer, which she fought for over eight years.
Early Life and Career
Templeton was born on February 26, 1952, in Lake Forest, Illinois. She contracted polio when she was only six months old, which affected her mobility and required her to wear a brace and use a cane. Despite this challenge, she pursued her passion for acting and moved to Los Angeles in the 1970s.
She appeared in several films and TV shows, such as Simon & Simon, Charles in Charge, Columbo, and Knots Landing. She also played Christine Tate in the episode “Ladybug, Ladybug” of In the Heat of the Night.
The Young and the Restless
In 1983, Templeton joined the cast of The Young and the Restless, the CBS daytime serial, as Carol Robbins, the loyal secretary of Jack Abbott (played by Terry Lester and later Peter Bergman). She stayed on the show for 11 years, until 1992.
Her character was also disabled and wore a brace and a cane, but that did not stop her from supporting Jack through his schemes and love affairs. She eventually fell in love with Jabot’s photographer, Skip Evans, and the two married, adopted a baby, and left town together.
Templeton loved being on the show and said that she fit into the “beefcake/cheesecake” categories as well as the disability category. She also had a great sense of humor and professionalism, according to her co-stars.
Later Years and Death
After leaving The Young and the Restless, Templeton returned to her native Texas and continued to work as an actress, writer, and director of independent films. She also became a disability advocate, a charity fundraiser, and a neighborhood activist. She spearheaded breast cancer fundraisers and playground initiatives, and helped cancer victims acquire financial aid for alternative treatments.
Templeton was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2003 and underwent conventional and alternative therapies. She died in San Antonio, Texas, on February 15, 2011, just 11 days before her 59th birthday.
Legacy
Templeton was one of the first disabled actresses to receive many contract roles in Hollywood. She broke the stereotypes and barriers that often limit the opportunities for people with disabilities in the entertainment industry. She also inspired many people with her courage, resilience, and generosity. She was a loyal secretary, a loyal friend, and a loyal human being. She will be missed by her fans, friends, and family.
