Cheryl Smith Actress and Musician Known for Cult Films and 1970s Horror Movies , Biography

Cheryl “Rainbeaux” Smith was a talented actress and musician who became a notable figure in the 1970s and 1980s. Known for her work in cult films and horror movies, Cheryl captivated audiences with her beauty, charm, and unique screen presence. Her career showcased a mix of acting talent and musical passion, making her an unforgettable name in the world of low-budget cinema.

Who is Cheryl “Rainbeaux” Smith?

Cheryl “Rainbeaux” Smith was an American actress and musician who rose to fame during the 1970s. She was best known for her performances in cult classics like Caged Heat and Lemora: A Child’s Tale of the Supernatural. Cheryl’s nickname, “Rainbeaux,” was inspired by her radiant smile and bubbly personality, which endeared her to fans and filmmakers alike. Beyond acting, Cheryl also dabbled in music, playing drums for bands like The Runaways and L.A. Girls.

Bio/Wiki

• Full Name: Cheryl Lynn Smith
• Nickname: Rainbeaux
• Date of Birth: June 6, 1955
• Place of Birth: Los Angeles, California, USA
• Date of Death: October 25, 2002
• Age at Death: 47 years
• Profession: Actress, Musician
• Known For: Lemora, Caged Heat, Revenge of the Cheerleaders

Early Life and Education

Cheryl Smith was born on June 6, 1955, in Los Angeles, California. Growing up in the heart of the entertainment industry, she was naturally drawn to acting and music. Details about her early education are limited, but it’s clear that Cheryl’s passion for performance began at a young age. She embraced opportunities in the entertainment world and found her way into acting during her teenage years.

Cheryl Smith Age, Weight, Height, and Appearance

Cheryl Smith was 47 years old at the time of her death in 2002. During her acting career, she was admired for her youthful beauty and natural charm. Cheryl had a slim build, stood approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, and had striking blonde hair that complemented her radiant personality. Her captivating smile and expressive eyes made her a standout in the films she starred in.

Parents and Siblings

There is little public information about Cheryl Smith’s parents or siblings. She maintained a relatively private personal life, and much of the focus remained on her career and public persona.

Cheryl Smith Nationality

Cheryl “Rainbeaux” Smith was an American. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, she was deeply connected to the entertainment industry, which helped shape her career.

Career Journey

Cheryl Smith’s acting career began in the early 1970s when she appeared in independent and low-budget films. Her first significant role was in the cult horror film Lemora: A Child’s Tale of the Supernatural (1973), where she played the lead character, Lila Lee. This film became a favorite among fans of cult cinema, and Cheryl’s performance was praised for its innocence and vulnerability.

In 1974, Cheryl starred in Caged Heat, a women-in-prison exploitation film directed by Jonathan Demme. The movie gained attention for its bold themes and became a staple of the genre. Cheryl’s role showcased her ability to balance toughness with sensitivity, earning her recognition in the industry.

She continued to work in various cult and exploitation films throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, including:

• Revenge of the Cheerleaders (1976)
• The Swinging Cheerleaders (1974)
• Laserblast (1978)
• The Incredible Melting Man (1977)

In addition to acting, Cheryl pursued music. She played drums for bands like The Runaways and L.A. Girls, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

Awards and Notable Works

Cheryl Smith did not receive mainstream awards during her career, as most of her films were in the low-budget and exploitation genres. However, her work in cult classics like Lemora and Caged Heat has earned her a lasting legacy among fans of independent and cult cinema.

Cheryl Smith Net Worth

Cheryl Smith’s net worth is not publicly documented. As an actress in low-budget films, she likely earned modest income compared to mainstream Hollywood stars. However, her contributions to cult cinema have made her an enduring figure in the genre.

Family and Children

Cheryl Smith had a son named Justin, who was born during her later years. She kept much of her personal life private, but it is known that she faced challenges as a single mother, particularly as her health declined.

Ethnicity and Religion

Cheryl Smith was Caucasian, and her religious beliefs were not publicly discussed.

Filmography

Cheryl Smith appeared in a variety of cult films, including:

1. Lemora: A Child’s Tale of the Supernatural (1973)
2. Caged Heat (1974)
3. The Swinging Cheerleaders (1974)
4. Revenge of the Cheerleaders (1976)
5. The Incredible Melting Man (1977)
6. Laserblast (1978)

Her roles often showcased her ability to bring depth and emotion to characters, even in unconventional and low-budget films.

Legacy and Impacts

Cheryl Smith’s legacy lies in her contributions to cult cinema. Her performances in films like Lemora and Caged Heat earned her a devoted following among fans of the genre. While she did not achieve mainstream success, Cheryl’s work remains celebrated for its charm and authenticity.

Her foray into music also highlighted her versatility, and her involvement with bands like The Runaways added another layer to her artistic legacy.

Cause of Death

Cheryl “Rainbeaux” Smith passed away on October 25, 2002, at the age of 47. She struggled with heroin addiction for much of her life, which led to health complications, including liver disease and hepatitis. Her untimely death was a tragic end to a life filled with artistic passion and talent.

Interesting Facts

1. Cheryl earned the nickname “Rainbeaux” because of her radiant smile and bubbly personality.
2. She was a drummer for The Runaways, a band that helped launch Joan Jett’s career.
3. Cheryl starred in several cult classic films that gained a devoted following over the years.
4. She faced significant personal challenges, including struggles with addiction.
5. Despite her challenges, Cheryl remained a beloved figure in the world of cult cinema.

FAQs

1. Who was Cheryl “Rainbeaux” Smith?
   Cheryl Smith was an actress and musician known for her roles in 1970s cult films like Lemora and Caged Heat.
2. Why was she called “Rainbeaux”?
   Cheryl earned the nickname “Rainbeaux” because of her radiant smile and cheerful personality.
3. What movies did Cheryl Smith appear in?
   Cheryl appeared in films such as Lemora: A Child’s Tale of the Supernatural, Caged Heat, and The Swinging Cheerleaders.
4. When did Cheryl Smith die?
   Cheryl Smith passed away on October 25, 2002, at the age of 47.
5. Did Cheryl Smith have children?
   Yes, Cheryl had a son named Justin.

Conclusion

Cheryl “Rainbeaux” Smith was a talented actress and musician who left a lasting mark on cult cinema and independent films of the 1970s and 1980s. Despite facing personal struggles, Cheryl’s performances continue to be celebrated by fans of the genre. Her work in films like Lemora and Caged Heat solidified her place in the world of cult classics, and her radiant smile and charm remain unforgettable. Cheryl’s story is a reminder of the enduring power of art and the impact one person can have, even in a niche field.