Mary McDonough is an American actress best known for her role as Erin Walton on the popular television series The Waltons, which aired from 1972 to 1981. Born on May 4, 1961, in Glendale, California, she began her acting career at a young age and quickly gained recognition for her talent. In addition to her work on The Waltons, McDonough has appeared in various television shows and films, including The Love Boat and The New Adventures of Old Christine. She is also an author and has written about her experiences in the entertainment industry, focusing on issues such as body image and self-acceptance.