This ’80s Star Left Acting to Raise Her 3 Kids & Return to Nursing – See Her Transformation

This celebrity transitioned away from acting to explore her passion for healing. She noted that her “life changed” profoundly, attributing this transformation to personal challenges that prompted her to prioritize her family over her professional endeavors.

The actress, a beloved star of the 1980s, stepped away from the spotlight to focus on raising her three children and reigniting her career in nursing. Decades later, she remains admired for her enduring beauty, as seen in photos showcasing her transformation over the years.

Before her decision to step away, the seasoned actress captured hearts as Raven Alexander White on the drama series, “The Edge of Night.”

She took on the role in 1977, bringing her unique flair to the character. The star portrayed Raven for nearly seven years, with a brief hiatus before the series concluded in December 1984.

Her portrayal of the character was more than memorable—it became a defining aspect of her career. She reflected on the role in an interview once, “Raven was a survivor. People love that. I think the first couple of years, she was the one everyone loved to hate. She did what she wanted and said what she wanted and schemed and manipulated.”

Following a brief four-month break, the actress returned to “The Edge of Night” ready to breathe new life into the character. Working closely with head writer Henry Slesar, they expanded Raven’s personality, introducing more depth and humor.

She acknowledged that a pivotal shift came with the introduction of Sky (Larkin Malloy), “That changed the whole ball game,” cementing her character’s lasting impact on the series.

The actress and Larkin Malloy pictured in promotional photo for "Edge of Night," January 1, 1980 | Source: Getty Images

The actress and Larkin Malloy pictured in promotional photo for “Edge of Night,” January 1, 1980 | Source: Getty Images

The Indiana native’s portrayal of Raven not only made her a fan favorite but also earned her critical acclaim. Over the course of twelve years as a prominent figure in 1980s daytime television, she received two Daytime Emmy nominations for Best Actress—recognition that highlighted her exceptional talent and dedication to the role.

Larkin Malloy and the actress on the set of "Edge of Night," 1984 | Source: Getty Images

Larkin Malloy and the actress on the set of “Edge of Night,” 1984 | Source: Getty Images

Notably, the TV star’s time on “The Edge of Night” not only brought her acclaim but also lifelong friendships. She remains close with Frances Fisher and Terry Davis, her best friends for over forty years, and has kept in touch with other co-stars, including Mariann Aalda, David Allen Brooks, and Jayne Bentzen. A cherished memory includes speaking with the late Forrest Compton on his 90th birthday.

The actress’s bond with “The Edge of Night” reaches beyond her co-stars to the devoted fans who continue to celebrate the show. Engaging with them through her Facebook page and YouTube channel, she once shared, “I am constantly surprised at the love I feel and hear expressed from ‘The Edge of Night’ fans.”

Revisiting episodes for the first time in decades alongside viewers reminded her of the show’s impact and the joy it brought to so many—a sentiment she treasures deeply. Actress Sharon Gabet’s engagement with fans rekindled her appreciation for the beloved television series, but her life took a different turn after leaving New York and the soap world behind.

Reflecting on her journey, she explained, “Around the time my third child was born in 1990, I started getting interested in healing. It started with my own psychological healing as I explored various therapies to deal with stress and events in my life that were painful.”

Gabet’s exploration expanded to spirituality and energy work, where she discovered her natural ability as an empath and clairsentient, immersing herself in numerous books and workshops.

This new path took on greater meaning when her youngest daughter, Johanna, faced developmental challenges and was eventually diagnosed with autism. It became even more profound as Gabet devoted herself to supporting Johanna’s unique journey.

The loving mother shared on Instagram in December 2022, “Next year will be a huge year for both of us. I’m setting up a gallery show for her art work which is amazing.”

She also revealed plans to transition Johanna into independent living with caregivers and a day program that would include an art teacher to nurture her talents. These changes would mark the first time in nearly four decades without a child at home—a bittersweet milestone in her lifelong role as a parent.

Johanna is one of three children Gabet shares with her first husband, actor Larry Joshua, alongside Jasmine, the founder of Reboot Theater as well as a singer and actress, and James, a musician.

The experience transformed Gabet’s priorities, shifting her focus from acting to nurturing her family and embracing the holistic connection between body, mind, and spirit.

Gabet’s journey of self-discovery and dedication to her family naturally evolved into a creative and meaningful life filled with new endeavors. She once shared her story in the autobiography “From the Raven to the Dove” before returning to nursing, a career she proudly resumed for several years.

Alongside her professional pursuits, she deepened her studies in healing, became a certified yoga instructor, and published the ebook “Spiritual Magic” in 2014. By 2020, she was working on a novel, “The White Witch of Woodside,” and a play, “The Night Shift,” while cherishing time with her family and exploring creative projects.

“My life is good. I feel blessed and grateful for every second of it,” she expressed. At 73, Gabet continues to embrace life’s blessings as a grandmother. In November 2024, she posted an Instagram photo cradling her grandchild, encouraging gratitude as a transformative force, quoting Rumi’s wisdom about love and joy radiating from a grateful heart.

Her timeless beauty hasn’t gone unnoticed by fans, with one remarking“70 is the new 30, especially onstage!” Others echoed the sentiment, calling her “Still beautiful,” “FABULOUS then and NOW!” and praising her for a smile that brightens their day.

Sharon Gabet’s journey is a reflection of strength, creativity, and love, as she has gracefully embraced each chapter—from soap stardom to motherhood and beyond.

Now a proud grandmother, she continues to inspire with her gratitude, positivity, and dedication to her family and passions. Through her warmth and enduring connection with fans, she exemplifies the beauty of living a life filled with purpose and joy.