Karen Valentine reflects on the winding road that led her to her acclaimed portrayal of a student-turned-teacher in the beloved TV series Room 222.
Launching her into the spotlight, the show, which aired nearly 50 years ago, remains a cherished part of her career, unlike her stint on The Dating Game, an experience she candidly labels as “awful,” with little affection.
Before achieving fame, notable personalities like Suzanne Somers, Tom Selleck, Leif Garrett, and Farrah Fawcett graced The Dating Game, the pioneering dating reality show that not only spawned countless imitations but also served as a springboard for emerging talents.
Karen Valentine, among those talents, transitioned from her appearance on Chuck Barris’ TV series Dream Girl of 1967 to an invite on the dating show, also conceived by Barris.
Once a teenage beauty queen, Valentine seized the opportunity to interview three potential suitors concealed behind a partition.
Initially viewing the experience as “harmless fun,” she later ruefully recounted how her “choice” turned the encounter sour.
“It was terrible because the guy thought it was a real date, you know? The Dating Game became more serious later with trips and all. I only got a show at the Ambassador Hotel, but the guy was under the impression we were meant for something more,” Valentine, now 76, revealed to Closer Weekly. “I wanted out. ‘Save your money, who needs a date? Let me act in another show or something.’”
Setting aside that regrettable episode, Valentine’s trajectory led her to the TV movie Gidget Grows Up (1969), which paved the way for her iconic role in Room 222 (1969 to 1974). The groundbreaking series, created by James L. Brooks and produced by Gene Reynolds, centered on a black high school teacher’s efforts to promote tolerance among students.
In 1970, Room 222 garnered critical acclaim at the Primetime Emmy Awards, securing titles like Outstanding New Series, with Valentine and Michael Constantine clinching supporting role wins.
Reflecting on her rapid ascent to recognition, Valentine recalls being awestruck when she encountered esteemed actors like Carol Burnett and Gregory Peck.
Meeting Peck during singing lessons, she fondly recollects his supportive gesture and marvels at her serendipitous encounters with renowned figures.
Despite Room 222’s accolades, the series faced a decline in ratings during its fourth season, leading to its premature cancellation.
Valentine’s subsequent venture, the politically charged show Karen (1975), met a similar fate due to low viewership. Although it was ahead of its time, network executives opted for a softer, more romantic approach.
Undeterred, Valentine continued her career with appearances on The Hollywood Squares and guest roles in popular TV series.
Looking back on Room 222, a formative chapter in her career, Valentine cherishes the memories and camaraderie it brought, acknowledging how it raised her professional standards.
In her words, “It spoiled me, setting the bar high. But I was fortunate to work on fun and well-executed projects.”
