<P> The producers felt that there were too many characters given the limitations of the half - hour sitcom format , and that the plot lines should be more focused to give the remaining girls more room for character development . Four of the original actresses -- Julie Anne Haddock ( Cindy ) , Julie Piekarski ( Sue Ann ) , Felice Schachter ( Nancy ) , and Molly Ringwald ( Molly ) -- were written out of the show ( although the four did make periodic guest appearances in the second and third seasons , and all but Molly Ringwald appeared in one `` reunion '' episode in the eighth season ) . Mr. Bradley 's character was also dropped and replaced by Mr. Charles Parker , played by actor Roger Perry . Perry would make appearances through the beginning of season 5 . In addition to being housemother to the remaining girls , Mrs. Garrett became the school dietitian as the second season began . Jo Polniaczek ( Nancy McKeon ) , a new student originally from the Bronx , arrived at Eastland on scholarship . A run - in with the law forced the four to be separated from the other girls and work in the cafeteria , living together in a spare room next to Mrs. Garrett 's bedroom . </P>
<P> The producers felt that there were too many characters given the limitations of the half - hour sitcom format , and that the plot lines should be more focused to give the remaining girls more room for character development . Four of the original actresses -- Julie Anne Haddock ( Cindy ) , Julie Piekarski ( Sue Ann ) , Felice Schachter ( Nancy ) , and Molly Ringwald ( Molly ) -- were written out of the show ( although the four did make periodic guest appearances in the second and third seasons , and all but Molly Ringwald appeared in one `` reunion '' episode in the eighth season ) . Mr. Bradley 's character was also dropped and replaced by Mr. Charles Parker , played by actor Roger Perry . Perry would make appearances through the beginning of season 5 . In addition to being housemother to the remaining girls , Mrs. Garrett became the school dietitian as the second season began . Jo Polniaczek ( Nancy McKeon ) , a new student originally from the Bronx , arrived at Eastland on scholarship . A run - in with the law forced the four to be separated from the other girls and work in the cafeteria , living together in a spare room next to Mrs. Garrett 's bedroom . </P>
who played mr parker on facts of life
who played mr parker on facts of life
Roger Perry
Roger Perry