Karen Valentine, best known for her role as Alice Johnson in the groundbreaking TV series Room 222, recently reflected on her early days in show business—including a surprising appearance on The Dating Game. What was meant to be a fun TV debut turned uncomfortable, but she moved forward with resilience.

Soon after, she starred in Gidget Grows Up, which led to her breakout role on Room 222. The show, airing from 1969 to 1974, earned critical acclaim for its diverse cast and socially conscious storytelling. Valentine and co-star Michael Constantine both won Emmys in 1970.