Phyllis Amanda Peterson

Amanda attended University High School and continued her studies at Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT, the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, CO, and Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO.

At age seven Amanda had her first theatrical experience as “Gretl” with UNC in the Sound of Music. As an eight year old, she auditioned in Denver for the movie “Annie” and was selected to be one of the leading orphans.

In 1985 she won her first starring role in the feature film “Explorers” with Ethan Hawke and River Phoenix. Her first starring role on a television series was in “Boone”. The following year, she co-starred in the Emmy-Award winning miniseries “A Year in the Life” with Richard Kiley and Sarah Jessica Parker. It was the third-highest rated miniseries of the 1986-1987 television season. Amanda was named Outstanding Young Actress in 1987.

Amanda co-starred with Patrick Dempsey in the teen comedy “Can’t Buy Me Love”. It was the sleeper hit of the summer of 1986. As a result, Peterson and Dempsey obtained teen idol status after the release and subsequently appeared on covers of teen magazines such as Tiger Beat, Teen Beat and many others for a considerable amount of time. Amanda went on to appear in other films including “The Lawless Land” (1987), “Listen to Me” (1989), and the 1994 film “Windrunner” starring Jason Wiles. She made reoccurring guest appearances on “Silver Spoons”, “Father Murphy”, and “Jack’s Place”, as well as other television series. She starred in the acclaimed PBS production “The Children Shall Lead” and A.F.I. Independent film productions.

Amanda starred in over fifty television commercials during her career. She was well regarded in the Entertainment Industry and deeply loved by her family and many friends.

A private memorial service will be held.

Memorial contributions may be made to Cornerstone Church (formerly known as First Presbyterian Church) in care of Allnutt Funeral Service, 702 13th St., Greeley, CO 80631. Friends may view the online obituary and send condolences at www.allnutt.com.