Farrah Fawcett

'Farrah's Story' draws nearly 9 million viewers
May 17, 2009, 5:01 AM EST

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- A documentary that shows Farrah Fawcett's battle against cancer in wrenching detail drew an estimated 8.9 million viewers, NBC said.

"Farrah's Story" details the former "Charlie's Angels" star's treatment and hopes for recovery, following her through chemotherapy and other grueling treatment. Fawcett, 62, was diagnosed in 2006 with anal cancer that has spread to her liver.

The film was NBC's most-watched program in its Friday night time slot in more than a year, excluding the Olympics, according to preliminary ratings released Saturday.

It was edged out by CBS' airing of the season finale of the crime drama "Numb3rs," which drew an estimated 9.6 million viewers.

Fawcett's video diary was initially intended for private viewing by family and friends, but was shared with a wider audience after the actress realized her story could inspire others, said her close friend Alana Stewart, a producer on the film.

The actress maintains good humor during the film as she faces pain, setbacks and, as the treatments grow harsher, the loss of her trademark lush blond locks.

"I do not want to die of this disease. So I say to God, 'It is seriously time for a miracle,'" Fawcett says.

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When I was a young girl watching Charlie's Angels, like many other youngsters, Farrah was my favorite angel. I loved the hair. I had the Farrah poster, and the Farrah doll. I watched The 6 Million Dollar Man because it was Farrah's husband.

After Charlie's Angels, she went on to be an acclaimed actress with movies like "The Burning Bed" and "Extremeties."

As I watched the documentary Friday, I sat and cried, and I chuckled at some parts. It is amazing the strength that she has kept during this tough time in her life. It makes you realize exactly how precious life is. Life is too short to deal with BS, and drama, and fake people.

Life is not a dress rehearsal; it is the real thing and you only get one shot.

From what I saw, she probably won't be on this Earth much longer but she truly left a last piece of work that will make people think and feel. Those close to her will truly have a hard time, but I hope they know she was truly special. No words can be expressed during someone's time of loss to help them feel better no matter how hard people try - but I truly hope that Farrah's family and friends know how much this documentary touched people - how much she touched people. That is her legacy and she will always be remembered.