See Farrah Fawcett In Her Career Defining Role

Farrah Fawcett gained quick notoriety as one of Charlies Angels, and combined with her appearance in a red swim suit tank on one of the most infamous posters ever, and a hairstyle that every young woman wanted to emulate, her talent was seen only on the surface. Yet, after leaving Charlies Angels after just one year, Fawcett seemed determined to be seen as a serious dramatic actress, taking on roles such as the battered wife in The Burning Bed.

Tonight, Encore Drama will air The Burning Bed, at 9:35 PM EST. Fawcett plays the role of Francine Hughes, an abused wife who finally had enough, and after being raped by her husband, sets their marital bed, with him still asleep on it, on fire. She was nominated for both an Emmy and Golden Globe for this role. It was a shock to see her so battered and worn down as Francine, but in a way, it made her even more real to us.