Help Kelly & Joe E. Tata Battle Alzheimer's

My father, Joe E. Tata, is known to the rest of the world for his role as “Nat Busschio” on the popular 90’s teen drama “Beverly Hills, 90210.” Remarkably, his role as the proprietor of the Peach Pit, lasted all 10 seasons of the original series. Nat was a loving father figure to the kids of West Beverly High.

In real life, my Dad, Joey, is honest, kind, and a truly incredible father.

After his final role on ABC Family’s “Mystery Girls,” my father’s health took a turn for the worse. In 2014, I left my home to move in with him, effectively becoming his full time caregiver. As we had countless times before, Dad and I would navigate uncertainty together.

In 2018, he was finally diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease.

Shortly after his diagnosis, I was admitted to Cedars-Sanai amid my own health struggles. While I was recovering, my father unwittingly signed documents which entered him into a conservatorship. He maintains that he agreed to this conservatorship “under duress.”

I was never served proper notice of these arrangements. In 2019, his conservator insisted I move out of the home my father and I shared. Since that time, she has kept me mostly in the dark regarding his decisions that should include family. I even have to ask her permission to visit him.

I'm currently staying at my Mom's place in Palm Springs. Without stable housing, income, or a reliable car, it’s extremely difficult to be with my Dad, even when his conservator allows. I worry how I will get to him in an emergency.

As you can imagine, the uncertainty has taken it’s toll on both me and my Dad. Now 86 years old, his illness has progressed to its final stages. He spends his days scared and confused. The few times I’ve seen him, there is relief and joy in his eyes.

I don’t disagree that coordination of his care is vital. But, it is not in the best interest of my father to keep his daughter at a distance, especially now. He should at least have the comfort of knowing I am there by his side. As his only blood relative, I should be included in decisions about his comfort and daily care.

I know this is a lot to take in. I’m not even sure what I need most or first. I just know my Dad needs me and I need him.

I’d like to be able to rent a car so I can visit him more. I’d like to find stable housing much closer to my Dad so I can be a consistent presence for him. I’d like to hire a mediator, to help clear up any confusion about the conservatorship and how it's been executed.

ETA August 25, 2022 -

I'm devastated to report that my father Joe E. Tata passed away peacefully on August 24, 2022.

My father and I are forever grateful for the love and support of family, friends, and fans. I'm also especially grateful to Joanna Konjevod for caring for my father in his final years and allowing me to be there to hold his hand in his final moments.

The remaining funds raised from this campaign will be donated to the Alzheimer's Association.

Please continue to keep us in your prayers as I grieve the loss of my best friend.

All my Love,

Kelly Katherine