Endless legs, a radiant smile, and a magnetic presence—Sharon Gabet captured hearts from the moment she stepped into the spotlight. But her impact on American television wasn’t just about looks. She became one of the reigning queens of daytime drama, captivating millions with her unforgettable characters. Her iconic portrayal of Raven Whitney on The Edge of Night cemented her place in soap opera history. Yet Sharon’s story goes far beyond scripts and sets—it’s about reinvention, resilience, and the courage to follow her heart wherever it led.

From Small-Town Roots to Big Dreams
Born Sharon Rose Gabet on January 13, 1952, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Sharon’s early years gave little hint of the fame to come. At first, she pursued a degree in nursing at Purdue University, seemingly headed toward a stable and practical career. But acting was her true calling. With unstoppable determination, she earned an MFA in Acting from Cornell University and secured a spot at the prestigious Actors Studio in New York City.

Imagine being a young woman trading the safety of nursing for the uncertainty of stage and screen—that leap of faith perfectly captures Sharon’s bold spirit. Moving to New York in the 1970s, she was a small-town girl ready to conquer the world’s biggest stage.

Video : Sharon Gabet interview from WOST website 2006

Raven Whitney: The Role That Made History
In 1977, Sharon landed the role that would forever define her career—Raven Alexander Whitney on The Edge of Night. Raven was bold, manipulative, and unapologetically scandalous. She schemed, betrayed, and plotted, but Sharon’s performance gave the character an unexpected vulnerability. Fans loved to hate her—and couldn’t stop watching.

Her on-screen chemistry with co-star Larkin Malloy, who played Sky Whitney, was electric. Together, they created one of daytime television’s most memorable couples. Sharon earned two Daytime Emmy nominations (1982 and 1984) for Outstanding Lead Actress, proving that her talent was every bit as sharp as Raven’s wit. To Sharon, Raven was more than just a role—it was an unforgettable character that allowed her to explore the fine line between villainy and charm.

Exploring New Roles and Expanding Her Range

When The Edge of Night ended in 1984, Sharon seamlessly transitioned into other daytime dramas. On Another World (1985–1987), she portrayed Brittany Peterson, a deaf woman caught in a complex love story marked by hardship and survival. The role demanded depth and emotional nuance, showcasing Sharon’s ability to handle challenging, multi-layered characters.

From 1987 to 1989, she brought life to Melinda Cramer on One Life to Live. Each soap opera offered Sharon new opportunities to display her versatility—from glamorous villains to grounded survivors. She even guest-starred on The Love Boat in 1982, reminding audiences that her talent reached beyond daytime TV.

Reinvention: Life Beyond the Spotlight

By the late 1980s, Sharon chose to step away from Hollywood, but she didn’t fade into obscurity. Instead, she embraced a journey of personal growth and reinvention. When her third child was diagnosed with autism, Sharon embarked on a two-decade exploration of holistic healing, metaphysics, psychology, and spirituality. She transformed personal challenges into a lifelong pursuit of wisdom and inner strength.

Her insights found their way into her writing. Spiritual Magic reflects her deep dive into metaphysical studies, while From the Raven to the Dove blends memoir with reflections on her soap career and spiritual awakening. The updated 2021 edition even includes new photos and heartfelt tributes to her late co-star Larkin Malloy. Through her books, Sharon forged a new connection with fans—one that revealed not just her past glories but her personal evolution.

Personal Life: Resilience Through Every Chapter

Sharon’s personal life had its own dramatic twists. She married actor Larry Joshua in 1984, and together they raised three children before divorcing in 1997. Later, she married Thomas Atwell in 2006, though that marriage ended in 2013. Through all the ups and downs, Sharon’s unwavering devotion to her children—especially her advocacy for her autistic child—became a defining element of her journey as a mother.

Her personal growth extended into yoga, where she earned certification as a teacher. Yoga became her anchor, offering balance and peace as she navigated life’s challenges and transitions.

Still Inspiring in the Present Day

As of 2025, Sharon Gabet, now in her seventies, remains active and inspiring. She connects with fans through social media, sharing cherished memories of her soap opera days and offering glimpses into her current life. She has even hinted at possible creative projects, such as a cabaret act that blends storytelling and performance—an ideal way to merge her love for acting with her gift for connecting with people.

Video : Sharon Gabet as Melinda Cramer – OLTL clips 1987/1988

Her home has become a personal sanctuary where she feeds ravens—an ironic and poetic nod to her most famous role. Sharon continues to inspire readers and fans with her books, which combine wisdom, experience, and authenticity.

Conclusion: A Legacy That Continues to Shine

Sharon Gabet’s journey proves that true stars shine both on and off screen. She will always be remembered as Raven Whitney, the unforgettable vixen of The Edge of Night, but her story doesn’t end there. Her work on Another World and One Life to Live highlighted her range and versatility, while her later pursuits in writing, healing, and spirituality showcased her depth and resilience.

Through every challenge, Sharon turned obstacles into opportunities, leaving behind not just a legacy of great television but also one of wisdom and personal growth. Sharon Gabet is far more than a soap queen—she is a storyteller, a teacher, and an enduring inspiration. Her light, much like her radiant smile, continues to warm hearts long after the cameras stopped rolling.