Surprise Performance

Shelley posed with Meredith Baxter and Annette O'Toole
for a publicity pic for Vanities in 1981

Shelley appeared in the Jack Heifner play Vanities in 1981 with Meredith Baxter (then Birney) and Annette O'Toole. The comedy-drama was taped and presented by HBO (Home Box Office) and was aired as part of the HBO series Standing Room Only. The play received excellent reviews and was very popular among HBO viewers; but it was Shelley's performance as Mary that surprised and blew away many viewers... because Shelley showed that could act. She turned out a fine performance in the play; and it had only been a year since she was let go of her Angel duties. How was that even possible?