After 35 Years, the Cast of 'Facts of Life' Are Closer Than Ever

The Insider With Yahoo co-anchor Thea Andrews joined the cast of the '80s sitcom Facts of Life for the show's 35th anniversary, held at the Paley Center for Media in Beverly Hills on Tuesday, and found out the cast members are still extremely close. Even after children, marriages, and divorces, they still turn to Mrs. Garrett, played by Charlotte Rae, for advice. Lisa Whelchel, who played Blair Warner in the show, said, "She gave me some great advice that I can't actually repeat. … And I will continue to go to her for advice." Nancy McKeon, who played Jo Polniaczek, added, "She probably told her to be her extraordinary self and enjoy her life." In its 209 episodes, Lisa, a devout Christian, refused to have her character lose her virginity, so Mindy Cohn's character, Natalie, had that experience instead. Lisa said, "I was very aware from early on that we had a lot of influence on young girls. Losing your virginity is not going to be taken care of in 17 minutes and a couple of commercials." Check out this video to see more from the cast, and tune in to The Insider With Yahoo for the latest in entertainment news.