Karen Carpenter’s struggle with anorexia nervosa during the 1970s and her tragic death at the age of 32 in 1983 is the focus of a new biography called “Lead Sister: The Story of Karen Carpenter.” The biography delves into the intensiveness of her therapy sessions with psychotherapist Steven Levenkron at the City Regency Hotel in Manhattan. Karen’s dedication to therapy is highlighted through her commitment of time and money, as she attended six months of therapy sessions, costing $100 each. Early sessions with Levenkron involved discussions about Karen’s compulsive behaviors, particularly her use of laxatives and thyroid medication. Levenkron expressed concern about the potential dangers of overdosage. Karen’s resistance to therapy initially appeared when she argued that she did not need help because of her success. However, Levenkron countered that her need for care was due to her inability to keep herself alive.
In September 1982, Karen’s health took a turn for the worse, and she was admitted to Lenox Hill hospital. At this point, she weighed only 77lbs and suffered from severe dehydration. Her digestive tract was so damaged that she had to be fed intravenously. Despite her previous resistance to gaining weight, Karen allowed herself to be cared for in the hospital and gained 20lbs over seven weeks through intravenous nutrition and small meals. During her time in the hospital, Karen made plans for her future and even signed a petition for divorce from her husband, Thomas James Burris, in a statement of independence. After reaching a weight of 100lbs, Karen concluded her therapy with Levenkron in November 1982, presenting him with a needlepoint canvas reading “YOU WIN – I GAIN.”
Karen’s final public appearance was with her brother and bandmate Richard in January 1983. They had plans for a tour together, but tragedy struck on February 4 when Karen was found motionless on the wardrobe floor of her childhood home in Downey. Her parents discovered her in cardiac arrest, and her cause of death was attributed to complications related to anorexia nervosa.
Karen left her estate to her brother, Richard, who oversaw the release of several compilations and posthumous records. The Carpenters, known for their easy-listening pop sound, achieved great success with over 150 million records sold worldwide and 35 Billboard Top 10 hits. Richard himself faced personal struggles with addiction and sought treatment in 1979.
The story of Karen Carpenter’s battle with anorexia nervosa continues to resonate, with filmmaker Randy Martin’s documentary “Karen Carpenter: Starving for Perfection” shedding light on her struggle. Karen’s own words in the documentary trailer express her fear when she became sick and her weight dropped to a staggering 89lbs.
For support and more information on eating disorders, please contact The National Eating Disorders Association at [email protected].
