Donna Pescow Shares Heartwarming Memories Of Reuniting With John Travolta And Her Journey In Entertainment

Hey there, friends! Let’s dive into the incredible world of Donna Pescow, the legendary actress who made a splash in the blockbuster Saturday Night Fever. Last winter, Donna got the chance to reunite with her former co-star John Travolta, and they teamed up for a Capital One commercial. “John and I have stayed friends over the years, but we hadn’t worked together in 46 years,” Donna shares with Closer. “Reconnecting was like a heartwarming moment straight out of a movie. The second we saw each other on set, it felt like time slowed down. You’re just overwhelmed with joy to see someone who means so much to you.”

Fast forward from her big break in Saturday Night Fever in 1977, Donna's career has been nothing short of remarkable. She's had a string of hit TV shows, guest-starred in iconic series like Cold Case and The Sopranos, and even found joy in teaching the next generation of actors. “Let me tell you, I’m not a fan of free time,” Donna, now 69, says with a laugh. “I thrive on working with young actors because they bring this fearless excitement and a hunger to dive deep and learn. It’s inspiring and keeps me going. I love every second of it.”

Childhood Dreams: How Donna Knew Acting Was Her Destiny

What sparked your passion for acting as a child?

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“Growing up, my grandfather was like a second dad to me. He was a movie projectionist at the RKO Albee in downtown Brooklyn. On Saturdays, I’d tag along to work with him, sit in the booth, and watch movie after movie all day. It was pure magic. I fell in love with the world of storytelling right there.”

Did you always know acting was your calling?

“Absolutely. I was a total ham as a kid. My grandfather worked in vaudeville as a stage manager, so he knew all these hilarious routines from comedians like Abbott and Costello. I was the only 8-year-old performing ‘Who’s on First?’ back then. Acting felt like the most natural path for me, and it only grew from there.”

Family Support and Inspirations

Did your family encourage your career choice?

“My family was incredibly supportive. They’d take me to Broadway shows, and there were a few family members involved in theater, like stagehands and crew members. I adored everything about the entertainment world—whether it was drama or comedy, theater or film. It was where I belonged.”

Who were your idols growing up?

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“Bette Davis was my drama queen, and Carol Burnett was my comedic goddess. I couldn’t wait to watch her show every week. How could anyone not fall in love with her? She’s a legend, and she inspired me to pursue comedy with heart.”

Memorable Roles and Career Milestones

What roles stand out as your favorites?

“Saturday Night Fever will always hold a special place in my heart. It was my first film, and it skyrocketed my career. The experience was magical, and it opened so many doors for me.”

Were you surprised by the massive success of Saturday Night Fever?

“Oh, absolutely. When the film first came out, no one—especially not Paramount or the producers—expected it to become the cultural phenomenon it did. It was a small-budget movie, but it resonated deeply with audiences. It wasn’t just a disco movie; it was a reflection of the era and the struggles young people faced as they tried to figure out who they were. It was a timeless story.”

Did you audition multiple times for your role in Saturday Night Fever?

“[Laughs] I thought it was such a small part, and I couldn’t figure out why they kept bringing me back for auditions. But I was happy to do it. They were searching for authenticity and that special connection, and I was determined to give them exactly that.”

What did you learn from working alongside John Travolta?

“John taught me so much about professionalism and generosity on set. He’s an incredible actor who loves improvising and making scenes come alive. He always cared about how his co-stars felt and whether they wanted another take. He’s been a huge influence on my career, especially in those early years.”

Life on Set and Beyond

Tell us about your time on the TV series Angie.

“Everyone on Angie was like family. Robert Hays, who’s one of my closest friends—we’re even godparents to each other’s kids—was always trying to crack me up. We’d film in front of a live audience, and he’d do these hilarious impressions that would leave me in stitches. It was such a fun and supportive environment.”

It sounds like such a blast. What else made it special?

“We filmed on Paramount’s lot, which was amazing. Right across from us, Robin Williams was filming Mork & Mindy, and nearby were Happy Days, Laverne & Shirley, and Taxi. Lunchtime at the commissary was like sitcom college. It was a blast hanging out with everyone and soaking in the creative energy.”

Personal Life and Future Projects

How have you managed to stay happily married for 37 years?

“Pure luck! My husband worked in advertising as a writer, so we shared a love for storytelling but in different ways. That balance helped. But more than anything, he’s my best friend and has this incredible sense of humor that keeps things light. Laughter is key in any relationship.”

What hobbies keep you busy outside of acting?

“I love teaching young actors at places like the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and the Lee Strasberg Institute. It’s not a hobby, but it’s something I’m deeply passionate about. Helping the next generation find their voice is incredibly rewarding.”

Any upcoming projects you can share with us?

“There’s a potential series in the works, and I just wrapped an episode of Grey’s Anatomy, which was a blast. I’m always on the move, looking for new opportunities.”

Is there anything on your bucket list?

“I’d love to do a one-woman show. I’ve performed cabarets in the past where I sang and shared stories, and it was so much fun. I’m on the lookout for something that fits my style.”

What’s the most important life lesson