Rosanne Katon

Rosanne Katon is a multifaceted American model, actress, comedian, and activist, best known for her vibrant career that began in the 1970s. She gained prominence when she became Playboy magazine's Playmate of the Month in September 1978, with her iconic centerfold photographed by Mario Casilli.

Born in New York City to a Jamaican father and an African-American mother, Katon made her mark in Hollywood during the mid-1970s. She appeared in the short-lived sitcom Grady, a spin-off of Sanford and Son, and made guest appearances on popular shows such as Jason of Star Command, What’s Happening!!, Good Times, and That’s My Mama. Katon starred in notable action films like Ebony, Ivory & Jade and The Muthers, both released in 1976. Despite her talent, she often found herself typecast in roles that capitalized on her physical appeal, featuring in R-rated comedies like The Swinging Cheerleaders and Bachelor Party.

Katon's versatility shone through in her work on the acclaimed medical drama St. Elsewhere alongside Denzel Washington, as well as in award-winning student films. In 1981, she made history as the first African American to be selected as Miss Golden Globes, a role that celebrates emerging actresses.

Her stage work includes a lead role in the Broadway production of Godspell and a part in the parody Women Behind Bars. Later, Katon explored stand-up comedy, contributing to the June 1991 Playboy pictorial “Funny Girls,” which highlighted female comedians.