Some Sirens had short but unforgettable careers. For me, they’re as important for their contribution than any so-called screen legend. Of course, my goal is to spotlight one of these artists from time to time in these humble pages.

Born on February 5, 1954 in New York City, Jamaican-American actress Rosanne Katon was a very bright spot in some American low-budget films during a 10-year period. As a youth, she enrolled in the High School of the Performing Arts and eventually got a lead role on Broadway for Godspell. This led to some interesting parts in exploitation films.

In 1974 she got a starring role in The Swinging Cheerleaders, alongside Colleen Camp, Cheryl Smith and Jo Johnston. She held her own with great energy, baring her breasts and being effortlessly gorgeous. For the Philippino production Ebony, Ivory and Jade, Rosanne was not as present as the ads promised but this picture remains a popular choice for 70s action lovers, being directed by the legendary Cirio Santiago. 1976’s The Muthers is also an amazing experience, uniting Rosanne, Jeannie Bell, Trina Parks and Jayne Kennedy. Sweet Momma! The majority of these gals took great delight in kicking many white slaver asses, again in the Philippines. Another not-to-be missed experience.

In 1978, Rosanne became one of the few African-America Playmates for the September 1978 Playboy issue, a memorable pictorial that became essential viewing in my youth. This resulted in being more involved in television shows, one of these being the immortal Jason of Star Command! Let’s note that her measurements were 36-23-34, pure marvel on a 5’2″ in frame.

In 1984, Rosanne married Richard Walden, president and chief executive officer of Operation USA, an relief organization that comes to the aid of Third World countries in need. This was pretty much the event that ended her movie career (she had even tried her luck at stand-up comedy). The couple has two children and one son is an expert cellist, being featured in the recent documentary Autism: The Musical, about talented autistic people.

Here’s her list of film credits from 1974 to 1985: The Swinging Cheerleaders, Let’s Do It Again, Ebony, Ivory and Jade, Chesty Anderson, USN, The Muthers, American Raspberry, Coach, Motel Hell, Lunch Wagon, Body and Soul, Zapped!, City Girl, Bachelor Party and Harem. Have you seen them all? And if not, why?