Christine Forrest was an American actress best known for her work in the films of cult director John Waters. Born in Baltimore in 1957, she was the daughter of prominent local artist Mearl Forrest and his wife, Clara. She attended the Baltimore School for the Arts before making her acting debut in 1974 in Waters' film Female Trouble.
Forrest made a name for herself playing the role of "Dawn Davenport" in Waters' 1975 film, Desperate Living. Her performance earned her a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Female. From there, she went on to star in Waters' films Polyester (1981) and Hairspray (1988), as well as the television series Cry-Baby (1990).
In addition to her work with Waters, Forrest also appeared in a number of other films, including the cult horror film The Godsend (1980), the cult comedy Serial Mom (1994), and the independent drama Baltimore Boys (1996). Her other television credits include roles in The Equalizer (1985) and the William H. Macy-directed made-for-TV movie, Door to Door (2002).
Forrest's last role was in the 2003 film A Dirty Shame, which marked her final collaboration with Waters. Sadly, Forrest passed away in 2004 at the age of 46. She was survived by her husband, musician and composer David Van Tieghem.
Though her career was short-lived, Christine Forrest's work with John Waters will forever be remembered. Her performances were always memorable, and she was a true delight to watch. Her legacy will live on through the films she helped create and the characters she brought to life.
