Donna Pescow is an American actress and director with a net worth of $2 million. Her memorable performances in projects like “Saturday Night Fever” (1977), “Angie” (1979–1980), “Out of This World” (1987–1991), and “Even Stevens” (2000–2003) have made her a recognizable presence in the entertainment industry. As of 2025, Pescow continues to be celebrated for her talent, versatility, and enduring influence across film and television.
## Donna Pescow: Bio Data Table
| Field | Detail |
|——————-|—————————————-|
| Full Name | Donna Gail Pescow |
| Date of Birth | March 24, 1954 |
| Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York, United States |
| Height | 5′ 1″ (1.55 m) |
| Occupation | Actress, Director |
| Years Active | 1973–present |
| Spouse | Arnold Shepard Zelonka (m. 1987) |
| Children | Jack Casey Zelonka |
| Notable Roles | Annette in “Saturday Night Fever”; Angie in “Angie”; Donna Garland in “Out of This World”; Eileen Stevens in “Even Stevens” |
| Net Worth | $2 million (2025) |
## From Brooklyn Beginnings to Broadway Dreams
Donna Pescow’s story begins in the culturally rich neighborhoods of Brooklyn, New York. Raised in a Jewish family, her father ran a downtown Manhattan newsstand, grounding her early life in the rhythms of city life. She attended Sheepshead Bay High School and, drawn to performing from a young age, set her sights on the stage after being inspired by the Broadway production of “Funny Girl” at the age of thirteen. This pivotal experience crystallized her ambitions, leading her to pursue professional training at the esteemed American Academy of Dramatic Arts, from which she graduated before launching into her theatrical pursuits.
Pescow’s foundational years on stage included a leading turn in the Off-off Broadway musical “Poor Old Fool” and participation in the national touring company of “Ah! Wilderness,” where she performed alongside established actors like Barbara Bel Geddes and Richard Kiley. Her formal training extended under the legendary Lee Strasberg in New York, further sharpening her craft and preparing her for the opportunities ahead.
## “Saturday Night Fever”: The Role That Launched a Star
The turning point in Donna Pescow’s career came in 1977 when she was cast as Annette in “Saturday Night Fever.” The film, starring John Travolta as Tony Manero, became a cultural phenomenon, and Pescow’s portrayal of the vulnerable, devoted Annette remains a touchstone of 1970s cinema. Her ability to embody heartbreak and yearning resonated with audiences and critics, resulting in a Best Supporting Actress nomination from the New York Film Critics Circle.
Pescow’s performance in “Saturday Night Fever” stands as a masterclass in character acting, capturing the bittersweet desires of a woman caught between loyalty, hope, and the pain of unrequited love. The film’s success instantly elevated her profile, opening the door to new roles and signaling her arrival in the wider industry.
## Television Stardom: Defining Sitcom Eras
Following her breakout film role, Pescow swiftly transitioned to television, bringing her signature charm to the small screen. In 1979, she became the titular star of the ABC sitcom “Angie,” playing Angie Falco-Benson, a spirited Philadelphia waitress who finds romance and navigates the comedic complexities of class and family contrast. The show’s blend of heart and humor, coupled with Pescow’s warmth, earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Comedy Series and a People’s Choice Award nomination for Favorite Female Performer on a New Television Program.
“Angie” placed Pescow at the forefront of late-70s television, and while the series ran only until 1980, it remains fondly remembered for its relatable storytelling and the visibility it gave to Pescow as a leading lady.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Pescow continued to appear in various television projects, but her next landmark role came with the fantasy sitcom “Out of This World” (1987–1991). In this syndicated hit, she played Donna Garland, the loving, earthbound mother of a half-alien teen. The show blended sci-fi whimsy with family dynamics, and Pescow’s grounded performance anchored its lighthearted surrealism.
## An Emmy-Nominated Turn on “Even Stevens”
Donna Pescow’s television renaissance found a fresh audience at the start of the new millennium, with her memorable supporting role as Eileen Stevens, the matriarch on Disney Channel’s “Even Stevens” (2000–2003). The show, centered on the misadventures of the Stevens family and starring a young Shia LaBeouf, was an instant hit with viewers.
Pescow’s performance as the loving but often exasperated mother showcased her impeccable comedic timing and her skill in bringing depth to sitcom roles. Her work on “Even Stevens” garnered three Emmy nominations, a testament to her enduring appeal and ability to connect with new generations of audiences even decades into her career.
## Behind the Camera: Directing and Expanding Horizons
While predominantly known for her acting, Pescow has also explored directing, further entrenching her versatility in the industry. Though details of her directing work are less widely publicized than her performances, her longstanding presence in television has enabled her to influence projects both in front of and behind the camera.
Her transition from performer to creative collaborator demonstrates a commitment to storytelling that transcends acting, embodying the spirit of a lifelong artist always eager for new ways to express her vision.
## Recognition and Industry Impact
Across her more than four-decade career, Donna Pescow has received multiple nominations and accolades. Some of her most notable professional recognitions include:
– New York Film Critics Circle nomination for Best Supporting Actress (“Saturday Night Fever”)
– Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Comedy Series (“Angie”)
– People’s Choice Award nomination for Favorite Female Performer on a New Television Program (“Angie”)
– Three Emmy nominations for her work on “Even Stevens”
Her contributions to both film and television reflect the breadth of her talent, from portraying iconic supporting characters to leading roles and shaping productions as a director.
## Personal Life and Enduring Influence
In her personal life, Donna Pescow has been married to Arnold Shepard Zelonka since November 1987, and the couple have one child, Jack Casey Zelonka. Despite the spotlight of her career, Pescow has balanced the challenges of family life and a demanding schedule, maintaining a grounded and positive presence in the industry.
Her journey from Brooklyn audience member to award-nominated performer is a testament to perseverance, professionalism, and a deep love for storytelling.
## Legacy and Continuing Relevance in 2025
As of 2025, Donna Pescow’s net worth is estimated at $2 million, reflecting both the longevity and consistency of her career. She remains a respected figure among peers and fans, known for her humility and commitment to craft. Her ability to continuously adapt—whether as a dramatic actress, sitcom star, or director—ensures her continued relevance in entertainment.
### Enduring Appeal in Popular Culture
The roles that defined her career—Annette in “Saturday Night Fever,” Angie in “Angie,” Donna in “Out of This World,” and Eileen in “Even Stevens”—have cemented her as a multi-generational touchstone. Each character reflected the times in which they were created, while also offering timeless insight into dreams, family, and hope.
Her presence in “Saturday Night Fever” continues to resonate with fans of classic cinema, while the younger audiences who grew up with “Even Stevens” remember her as the emblematic, endlessly patient TV mom.
### Influencing Future Generations
Pescow’s contribution can be measured not just in awards or roles but in the doors she helped open for women in television, especially for actresses who transition between stage, screen, and directing. She set a standard for consistency, professionalism, and range that continues to inspire aspiring actors.
Her legacy is characterized by a blend of ambition and authenticity. As a Brooklyn native who rose from neighborhood stages to national recognition, Donna Pescow embodies the vitality and possibility of American show business.
## Conclusion
With a career spanning more than fifty years, Donna Pescow stands as a model of resilience, adaptation, and artistic passion. Her film and television work across generations—combined with her ventures behind the camera—have left a profound impact on audiences and the entertainment industry as a whole. As of 2025, her net worth of $2 million marks a career characterized not by headlines or controversy but by a steady, respected, and meaningful presence in American culture. Whether as Annette, Angie, Donna, or Eileen, Pescow’s roles illuminate both the everyday and the extraordinary—and her journey from Brooklyn to stardom remains a quintessentially inspiring story.
