Small Sacrifices

This terrifying true story, based on Ann Rule’s best-selling book, marked a high point in television drama for 1989. At the heart of the chilling tale of a mother’s mental illness and unthinking cruelty is the performance of Farrah Fawcett. With this portrayal, Farrah Fawcett has forever put to rest the image of her talents associated with Charlie’s Angels. Ably assisted by Ryan O’Neal, with exceptional writing by Joyce Eliason and direction by David Greene, Ms. Fawcett brings a sense of realism rarely seen in television miniseries. For a drama of unusual power, a Peabody Award to Small Sacrifices.