Amanda Peterson

1971 - 2015

Amanda Peterson

1971 - 2015

BORN

1971

DIED

2015

Amanda Peterson Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jul. 6, 2015.
GREELEY, Colo. (AP) — Amanda Peterson, best known for her role in the 1987 romantic comedy "Can't Buy Me Love," has died. She was 43.

Sgt. Mike Moran with the Greeley, Colorado, police department says Peterson was found dead at an apartment complex Sunday. She was alone, and an investigation into her death is ongoing. No other information was released.

Peterson began her film career when she was 9 in the 1982 adaptation of the play "Annie," directed by John Huston.

The Greeley native appeared in numerous movies and TV shows over the next decade. Her biggest role was playing opposite Patrick Dempsey in "Can't Buy Me Love."

She played cheerleader Cindy Mancini, whom Dempsey's character paid to pose as his girlfriend.

Peterson appeared in her last film, "Windrunner," in 1994.


Copyright © 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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March 11, 2025

Allen posted to the memorial.

June 18, 2024

Christian Judson posted to the memorial.

July 14, 2023

Armstrong Frankie posted to the memorial.

286 Entries

Allen

March 11, 2025

Mandy ! Here in 2025 , keeping your memory alive ! I wanted to thank you sooooooo much for inspiring me . I´m determined to be the best friend I can be for everyone who God has put in my life. Loving others whom God has put in our path is our highest calling . You´ve inspired me to carry that forward. Forever .

You are my sister in Christ , since we both know Jesus . :-) I can´t tell you how much it soothes my soul to know that you are in the safe hands of the almighty . That means I´ll see you one glorious day.

Until then, I´ll keep the flame burning brightly as God gives me strength.

Farewell but not goodbye my friend.

You´re In my thoughts always.

Christian Judson

June 18, 2024

May your beautiful spirit live forever. You are never forgotten.

Armstrong Frankie

July 14, 2023

May you RIP young lady and God is with you

TL Box

December 27, 2022

"Lost but not forgotten..." The impact you had over people who knew you and what you achieved in this life will last forever. You will always be missed.

Megan Quimby

February 8, 2022

You were my idol back when I was a teenager.. So pretty and perfect in my eyes. I'm 43 now, the age you were when you died. I too am struggling but I won't give up. Wish you were here. Can't buy me love and Annie are two if my most favorite movies. RIP
Megan Q- Minnesota

Julie Nasserjah

December 12, 2021

Forever missed. Shine bright in heaven.
The Nasserjahs

Patricia Colemam

November 21, 2021

I hope you have found peace where your mind can rest. We share similar stories.

Ziggy Aslam

September 4, 2021

I can't believe it's taken me so long to find out you had passed. I loved you from the moment I saw you in Can't buy me Love and that's how I will always remember you. You should have lived a happy, fulfilling life and I'm sorry you lost your way but you are at peace now. Thank you for being my first ever crush ❤RIP xx

David Eberle

February 19, 2021

I can't believe I just found out you passed after so much time has passed. Beautiful girl, very talented, RIp Mandy

Becca Y

February 17, 2021

I wanted to look like you

Sheridan Combs

February 16, 2021

You are missed.

Derrek Glover

October 4, 2019

One of the best 80's movies ever. I miss those days and she helped in making it the time of my life. I had no idea she was gone. Watching Can't Buy me Love now with my daughter. R.I.P. Ms Peterson.

Kari Bliss

September 21, 2019

I loved watching you when i was younger. So beautiful and full of life. So sadto hear of your passing. #forevercindymancini

Mark Kegyes

August 25, 2019

Gone far to soon.... RIP

Laura Okrainec

July 4, 2019

So so sad. Hope her family is healing.

Maria Olan

June 21, 2019

You are missed

Hiliana Perez

April 15, 2019

YOUR WERE MY IDOL AS A KID.I WANTED TO BE U SO BADLY. I LOVED YOUR STYLE AND YOUR CUTSEY DIMPLES. RIP MANDY....

Roby Mallo

April 9, 2019

Rest in peace Amanda,just watched your movie "Can't buy me love". Love

Denise Menchaca

March 25, 2019

Your beautiful spirit lives on through your acting talent and love that you shared openly to the world. Rest in peace.

Alessio Hurricane

February 23, 2019

Rest in peace Amanda!

EVETTE VELASQUEZ

February 13, 2019

May you Rest in Heaven, be at peace. I grew up watching you on Cant buy me love. I loved your character. You are missed

Salvatore

December 17, 2018

I hope you're well wherever you are right now, Amanda. You became my celebrity crush since I saw -Cant buy me Love- for the first time.
Your beauty and talent were so underrated.
RIP

willie eagan

November 29, 2018

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

marc mccrumb

November 25, 2018

She was my first movie crush, all these years after her death and as a fan that's never met her, she is still missed.

Dav Bain

October 9, 2018

Of course she was more than an actress But fell in love with as a child when she did so great in the bathroom mirror part in Can't buy me love,still a bit sad for her today

Grant P

February 8, 2018

R.I.P Phyllis.. We all miss you... ! We were both born on the same day 8/7/71. Rest in the heavens little angel, we will all see you again eventually with open arms in heaven ❤ xoxox.

Robert Jacobson

October 6, 2017

Recently found out about Mandys death. I didn't know her personally, but knew of her. When I was 12 I delivered the Denver Post to her Grandmother and Grandfather Peterson (Doc). I remember her Aunt being on the Andy Griffin show and her Dad, Jim Peterson having a band and being featured in Life magazine in the early 50's. I always felt she would have done a better Annie, then the one picked. RIP Amanda You are loved by many.

GREG Olesko

June 19, 2017

Rip to a beautiful women. I am sorry you had such pain. Let it be know you brought much joy and laughs to your fans. It's 2017 and you are not forgotten. Even though I never met you. Prayers to your family. Sorry for your loss

BENNY HICKS

December 17, 2016

CHEERS TO AMANDA PETERSON! IF THERE IS SUCH THING IS GOD,AMANDA IN A BETTER PLACE!it would be an honor to slow dance with Amanda Peterson up in the heavens in the blue sky for ever!

November 26, 2016

God Bless you Amanda. I pray The Lord Jesus received you into His arms. I'm saddened to hear of your passing

September 30, 2016

Sending my sincere condolences to the family. I hope you can find comfort in the words at Psalm 145:18,19. May you find the strength to cope through this difficult time.

Charlie Ray

December 30, 2015

Very saddened by this as are many. I hope God eases the pain and u will forever b loved Mandy so so sad and heartbroken in nc. Always my first crush. Til we all get to see u again:(. Charlie nc

November 27, 2015

I had just finished watching Can't Buy Me Love for the millionth time. I am the same age as Amanda and grew up loving her in this great movie. I wanted to look like her but had red hair but I tried to style it the same. She was, is and will continue to be one of the great and beautiful actresses of our time. She will always be one of my favorite actresses ever. She and her family are in my heart. You are missed by many and loved by more. -Deb Durham (Canada Ontario)

Nick Gamvas

November 11, 2015

Great Actress! May her Memory be Eternal. In my prayers. And Sympathies to the Family.

October 20, 2015

Gods Blessing Hawaii Love you

Denise Griese

October 16, 2015

Such a beautiful Young Lady that was taken so soon. May you rest in peace.

Benjamin Aguirre

September 26, 2015

In my prayers and thoughts....

Benjamin Aguirre

September 26, 2015

I loved her in Can't buy me love.... I will never forget her or that movie great talent... And such a pretty girl gone way to soon....

BENNY HICKS

September 6, 2015

Amanda Peterson lives! u will all ways be my favorite high school cheerleader. god wanted me I'm free GONE never forgten. LOVE BENNY HICKS LAKEWOOD WA.

Tina A.

September 5, 2015

Heaven has gained a beautiful Angel. May you forever Rest in Peace, Amanda. My heartfelt condolences go out to your family and friends. God Bless.

robert reyes

August 24, 2015

very truly sorry for your loss i am a fan and cant buy me love had me fall in love with her i wish i was a movie star i would never have let her go my condolences to her fanily

Matthew D.

August 23, 2015

Like many people, I adored Amanda growing up. She was so lovely on both the inside and outside with a smile that could light up a room. I am so appreciative of her brilliant acting on A Year in the Life, the wonderful show in which she gave so much warmth and humanity to the character of Sunny Sisk. The talent and vibrant spirit of Amanda will always live on.

Tommy Melis

August 19, 2015

(PEAC2U) beautiful Mandy, my most beloved actress. Your clear pure bright Soul graced the screens with brilliance, beauty and magnetism. You will always be loved and deep in my heart.


heartbroken in Seattle..
Tommy

A Foster

August 18, 2015

My heart goes out to you. Such a beautiful actress to go so young.

Joe Krause

August 18, 2015

I wish her family well, Amanda will live on in all of our hearts.

Curtis Brown

August 13, 2015

Our hearts go out to the family of Amanda...she was loved by many.

August 11, 2015

Very sorry to hear of your loss. I hope you can be comforted by God of all comfort. Rom.15:4

August 9, 2015

Very saddened yo hear this news. I watch cant buy me love all the time! May you have peace.

Joe Lake

August 9, 2015

Was deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Amanda Peterson. Loved her in Can't Buy Me Love, but thought she was also exceptional in A Year In The Life. With all the garbage on television, never understood how such a great show could be cancelled after one season. My condolences to the entire Peterson family.

J.T.

July 27, 2015

Like millions of other boys in the 80's and early 90's, Amanda was my very first celeb crush. For that alone she will forever hold a special place in my heart. I was shocked and saddened by her untimely death. It brought me back to my childhood and hit me hard like no other celeb death ever did. ;(
I rejoice that Amanda is free and at peace now, and I mourn and pray for strength and comfort for her loved ones and fans. Thank you, Amanda. I never met you here on earth, but when the time is right for me to go to heaven you will be among the very first getting the biggest hug ever from me! Until then, RIP and fly high pretty angel. xxxooo

Amanda was so beautiful in this movie.

Anne Q.

July 23, 2015

When I first learned of Amanda Peterson's passing, I was in deep shock. I loved her in the movie "Can't Buy Me Love". I even wanted to be just like her when I was in High School. Amanda was only a year and a half younger than me, but I still looked up to her, because of this awesome movie, which I still love to this day. Rest in Peace Forever, Amanda. You will always be "Cindy Mancini" to me. And give my Late Mom a big hug for me up there in Heaven.

Mark Conner

July 20, 2015

May you rest in peace Amanda. Can't Buy Me Love, though it was a romantic comedy, had a profoundly positive effect on my life. I'm sorry you had fallen on hard times, and I pray that you were turning your life around. Your work had a positive impact on thousands of people. I hope I will see you again someday.

Ashley Meridian

July 20, 2015

I just found out about Amanda Peterson and am shocked and saddened. She was beyond terrific in Can't Buy Me Love and regardless of her hardships she will always be remembered as the ultimate cheerleader Cindy Mancini. God bless her family at this most difficult time.

TLL

July 20, 2015

I am so saddened to hear the news about your dear loved daughter. God has promised to be a refuge and strength when we need him. May his comfort and strength that he provides, along with the loving memories of Amanda help you at this time and in the days to come. My deepest, deepest, deepest condolences to your family

Kelly Mac

July 19, 2015

Rest in peace Amanda. I was such a fan of your movies. You were so beautiful and I hope you finally find peace. God bless.

sandra

July 17, 2015

May you rest in the arms of our blessed mother.

chris mankiewicz

July 16, 2015

Amanda was a beautiful , talented woman and I know heaven has a spot for her , chris

Gerson Silva

July 16, 2015

Meus sinceros sentimentos a família de Amanda Peterson. Sua repentina e precoce morte teve uma grande repercussão aqui no Brasil. Também fui e sou um eterno apaixonado pela Amanda.
gerson - Brasil

Tammy Goulet

July 16, 2015

I loved the movie Can't Buy Me Love. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and children during this difficult time.

Allan Decker

July 15, 2015

Growing up I loved Can't Buy Me Love and like many knew the moment I seen Cindy Mancini I was instantly in love with her. I have watched this movie so many times over the years and still do at 41 I now find it hard to believe she is no longer with us. To the entire Peterson family know Amanda is in a place were so much love and peace truly does exist and that love will always be felt. RIP and my prayers to you all. God Bless you Amanda you still are an angel:)

Walter Reilletr

July 15, 2015

She was a very beautiful person, it's a shame to have to loose people like Amanda at such a young age.

Aaron

July 15, 2015

To the Peterson Family: My condolences for your loss. Amanda was a beautiful girl & she had great talent. Please keep this beautiful promise in mind (Isa 33:24) Soon all types of sicknesses will no longer be it will be removed from the earth completely!

Golddog

July 15, 2015

So sad, so beautiful a girl. My condolences to her family and children.

Phillip Gerber

July 13, 2015

Thank you for the memories. Watching you grow as time passed by. You will always be the one who touched many hearts and lives around the world. May you rest in peace Amanda. God has a new angel now. May you rest in peace. With deepest sympathy Phillip.

jd king

July 13, 2015

Beautiful on earth and in heaven, she will be
in my memory as a beautiful person, that I always wanted to meet...GOD bless to her family & let the angels rejoice in her name...

A. Shayne

July 13, 2015

shine bright like a diamond

Dee

July 13, 2015

. God Bless You

SDG

July 13, 2015

This world was not meant for one as beautiful as you. I hope we meet in the next world.

lyn woodbury

July 13, 2015

what a beautiful girl. rest in peace, amanda.

Christian Christiansen

July 13, 2015

So deeply saddened. Me and my wife had our first date and watched "Cant buy me love" in 1988. I bought this DVD just 5 weeks ago not knowing what would happen to Amanda.

Who would not have a crush on her...

It hurts that shes gone at such a young age. My deepest sympathy to her family, Christian (Berlin, Germany)

Daniel Johnson

July 12, 2015

May you rest in peace 1 of my favorite movies cnt buy me love

KAMEL

July 12, 2015

I m so sad you were an angel. A part of my heart is gone away. REST IN PEACE. I will never forget you. Kamel FRANCE.

JGV

July 12, 2015

My heart shattered Amanda, when I read that you had passed away. The 14 year old in me, that still nursed a killer crush after all of these years screamed in agony. You were a wonderfully talented and spectacularly beautiful presence on screen that I will always remember. My heart breaks for you for all that you suffered through the years and I pray that you are at peace in the arms of the redeemer...who bought you with his love. Rest now, my thoughts and prayers go out to your family and friends.

Deb W

July 12, 2015

So sad to be gone so young. Prayers to all who knew you.

G Mckz

July 12, 2015

My sincerest sympathy goes out to the Peterson family.
May our Great Heavenly Father comfort you at this time ( Jeremiah 29:11-14) and bring you all peace of mind.
May his blessings be with you.

fernando pacca

July 12, 2015

There are no words that can ease the pain of the loss. So is my tribute here, will family. I am very sad. Actress most beautiful movie, which left so many passionate boys, just like me.

joy

July 11, 2015

I was so sad when I heard that amanda had passed away! I loved the movie can't buy me love. She was such a beautiful girl and I think she was great in that movie. I wished I was her. She was perfect. God bless her family during this difficult time and always. God bless you amanda! Rip

Stephanie

July 11, 2015

RIP Cindy Mancini. Prayers for your family during this difficult time

Hans C

July 11, 2015

Here to extend sincere condolences to the Peterson family in this difficult time. Been a fan of her since CBML. Rest in peace Amanda.

LIZ

July 11, 2015

MAY PEACE FIND YOU

Karen

July 10, 2015

So young . So very sorry . Miss everything

Jim Marino

July 10, 2015

Mandy, you were the most beautiful person who ever lived. And your talent as an actress captured the hearts of millions of your fans, who will never forget you.

May you forever rest in God's arms you beautiful Angel...

Bev Hernandez

July 10, 2015

May you rest in peace....God bless.

Frank Corvino

July 10, 2015

I was 12 when I saw Can't Buy Me Love at the movies with my oldest sister. As soon as I saw her, instantly had a crush on Amanda. What a beautiful girl and a great actress! I watched the movie the other night. It was sad to know that she was no longer with us. But the movie will always be around and Amanda will be forever young. My condolences to Amanda's family and friends.

Rest in Peace Amanda.

Karen King

July 10, 2015

What an adorable girl you are. You will always be remembered. My prayers go out to your family. RIP Amanda.

Larry Jones

July 10, 2015

We will miss you Amanda

Shawn Silvers

July 10, 2015

Mandy was my friend and will be missed. Im deeply saddened by the loss of such a wonderful soul.

Sharla

July 10, 2015

I'm so sorry. God bless your family.

Grady Youngblood

July 10, 2015

Amanda Peterson is the Greatest Actress in Movies

A Greiving Mother

July 10, 2015

Oh my heart goes to you all. May our Heavenly Father who sees your tears flow and pain of heart comfort you all during this most sorrowful time. Psalm 34 : 18

July 10, 2015

may your daughter RIP she will be missed

Robert Lucy

July 10, 2015

My thoughts and prayers are with the Peterson Family. Heartbroken and Crushed.

Michelle

July 10, 2015

I'am so sad over this loss as are so many other fans. For years after Can't Buy Me Love I wanted to get a Volkswagen Cabrio because of how cool Cindy Mancini looked in it. I never did get one but every time I see one she aways comes to mind. I also wanted her hair too! In my teen years she is what I would have wanted to look like. Also Annie was my favorite movie as a child. There is only a few celebrity deaths that will affect you in your life time and AmandaPeterson Peterson is definitely one of them. God Bless everyone who is mourning her death.

July 9, 2015

Rest in peace Amanda. Although I only knew you from your work I feel as though I knew you personally. I am sure most of us feel that way. You had an amazing quality that brought your characters out beyond the screen into our homes and our hearts. You will be missed and your short time here will not be forgotten. I saw a crack in the moon tonight. And because of that whenever I see the moon it will now always remind me of you. My deepest condolences to your family and friends.
- B

Kat Monthei

July 9, 2015

As a teen, I watched Can't Buy Me Love and now watch it with my teen daughter. Amanda was an amazing actress and I am glad I am able to share her talent with my daughter. I am so sorry for your loss. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Lisa F

July 9, 2015

My deepest sympathies for the family. I hope she is at peace. She will always be remembered and loved.

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March 11, 2025

Allen posted to the memorial.

June 18, 2024

Christian Judson posted to the memorial.

July 14, 2023

Armstrong Frankie posted to the memorial.