Rosanne Katon

About Rosanne Katon

Rosanne Katon, born on February 5, 1954, is a multifaceted American figure known for her work as a nude model, actress, comedian, and activist. She gained prominence as the Playmate of the Month in the September 1978 issue of Playboy magazine, with her iconic centerfold shot taken by photographer Mario Casilli. Hailing from New York City, Katon has a Jamaican father. Prior to her Playboy feature, she amassed various acting credits, including a leading role on Broadway in Godspell and a part in the comedic film Women Behind Bars, which parodies women's prison movies. She also starred in two action films directed by Cirio Santiago in 1976, Ebony, Ivory & Jade, and The Muthers, where she shared the screen with fellow former Playboy model Jean Bell.

In 1984, she married Richard Walden, and together they have two children, one of whom is autistic and a skilled cellist. Their family journey was featured in the 2007 documentary Autism: The Musical, which won an Emmy for Best TV Documentary Special on HBO. Starting in the mid-1970s, Katon enjoyed a steady career in Hollywood, including a role in Grady, the short-lived spin-off of Sanford and Son. Despite her talent, she was frequently cast in stereotypical sex symbol roles in R-rated comedies such as Chesty Anderson, U.S. Navy (1976), Lunch Wagon (1981), and Bachelor Party (1984), particularly highlighted by her Playboy centerfold appearance. However, she also broke this mold with a recurring role alongside Denzel Washington in the medical drama St. Elsewhere and notable performances in acclaimed UCLA student films, including Julie Dash's "Illusions" (1982) and S. Torriano Berry's "Rich."

Katon eventually ventured into stand-up comedy and was featured in the June 1991 Playboy pictorial "Funny Girls," which spotlighted female comedians. She remains actively engaged with Operation USA, a humanitarian organization led by her husband that provides assistance to regions in need, including places impacted by natural disasters and humanitarian crises. Rosanne serves on its Advisory Board, contributing to its mission from their base in California. Her legacy includes her notable recognition as Playboy's Playmate for September 1978.