Iconic ’80s Actor Makes Rare Red Carpet Appearance for a Special Cause

Erik Estrada
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MAY 16: Erik Estrada attends the 32nd Annual Race To Erase MS Gala at Fairmont Century Plaza on May 16, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Race to Erase MS)

By Michaela Gordoni

CHiPs star Erik Estrada appeared at Nancy Davis’ Race To Erase MS Gala Friday — a rare occasion for the ’80s actor.

Estrada shared photos of the event, which he attended with his family, wife Nanette Mirkovic and daughter, Francesca Natalia, Parade reported on May 19.

“Family night out last night for the 32nd Annual Race to Erase MS Gala at the Fairmont Century Plaza. Truly such an incredible event thanks to the non stop determination of @nancypeaceandlove to find a cure,” he captioned his post.

“It was great to see old friends, make new friends and raise money for such important cause,” he added.

Estrada wrote a book this year about a dad with MS who helps an elderly couple in need. It’s called “Officer Erik and the Very Special Dad.” All sales from the book are donated to MS research.

Estrada is known for his role as Highway Patrol officer Francis “Ponch” Poncherello on CHiPs. Estrada joined the real police force in 2016. The St. Anthony, Idaho, police department swore him in as a reserve officer. He focuses on cyber investigations concerning minors.

“Education is the best protection especially on the internet,” he told the Idaho State Journal in 2016.

Related: DIVINE RENOVATION – DESTINATION: NEW ENGLAND: Episodes 201-203

“Children should be educated in how to handle a chat room,” he continued. “Don’t give out personal information. Certainly don’t give out your mother’s or father’s name or what school you go to.”

“Don’t ever accept gifts. Certainly don’t ever go meet someone you’ve been chatting with,” he added.

“They’re not who they are. If they send a picture, that isn’t them.”

Estrada recently stepped back into the acting world. He’s starred in some commercials and hosts a show, DIVINE RENOVATION, which has two seasons. In it, Estrada and a team give renovations to those in need, non-profits, and churches.

Movieguide®’s review of Season 2, DIVINE RENOVATION – DESTINATION: NEW ENGLAND: Episodes 201-203, reads, “The first three episodes of DIVINE RENOVATION season two are a slam dunk. The series is built on top of great production value, a likeable host, and a strong foundation of Christian virtues. It exemplifies people overcoming their personal setbacks and supporting their local communities.”

The review continues, “Moreover, the third episode interviews a Catholic priest and a mayor who volunteer at their food pantry. MOVIEGUIDE® recommends the show to all ages.”

The show is available to watch on Up Faith & Family, Tubi, Prime Video, Freevee, Apple TV and more.

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