Dana Michelle Plato ( November 7 , 1964 -- May 8 , 1999 ) was an American actress , notable for playing the role of Kimberly Drummond on the U.S. television sitcom `` Diff ` rent Strokes '' from 1978 to 1986 .
Dana Michelle Plato ( November 7 , 1964 -- May 8 , 1999 ) was an American actress who was known for her role as Kimberly Drummond in the hit comedy show `` Diff ` rent Strokes '' .