Valerie has a very large body of work, with 42 years working as an actor, director and writer, although most of the world knows her as Doris Schwartz, the character she portrayed for four years, from 1982 to 1985, who moved deeply into the hearts of people young and old. During her time with Fame, Valerie co-wrote the episode “Signs” and directed “Reflections” which was uncommon for series actors at that time.

 

Shortly after leaving the show Valerie co-starred in, “You Again?” and “All Is Forgiven”, with recurring roles in “Hotel” and “Dream On”. Valerie has appeared in a dozen

made-for-TV movies with guest appearances on other TV series including “Murder, She Wrote”, “Beverly Hills, 90210”, “Empty Nest”, “Nip/Tuck” and “The Unit” as well as appearing in numerous stage plays. In addition to acting, Valerie has directed several feature films and episodic television shows.

 

In 2001, Valerie released an album of mostly her own compositions, called “Grownup” and among the tracks was a re-recording of "Hi Fidelity". In 2019 Valerie Directed an independent film “Love and Debt".