June Lockhart, a beloved figure from Hollywood's Golden Age, has left an indelible mark on entertainment with her passing at the age of 100.
According to Deadline, the actress, renowned for her roles in "Lassie," "Lost in Space," and "Meet Me in St. Louis," died of natural causes on Thursday night at her Santa Monica home, surrounded by family.
Born on June 25, 1925, in New York City, Lockhart was destined for the spotlight. Her parents, Gene and Kathleen Lockhart, were both actors, setting the stage for her early entry into the industry.
At just 8 years old, Lockhart made her stage debut in a 1933 production of "Peter Ibbetson" at the Metropolitan Opera House. This marked the beginning of a lifelong passion for performance. By age 13, she stepped onto the silver screen as Belinda Cratchit in MGM’s "A Christmas Carol" in 1938. She acted alongside her parents in this holiday classic, showcasing her natural talent. At 19, Lockhart became a contract player for MGM, solidifying her place in Hollywood. This opened doors to significant roles in major films of the era.
One of her early standout performances came in 1944 with "Meet Me in St. Louis," where she played Lucille. This musical gem endeared her to audiences worldwide. Lockhart continued to build her film resume with appearances in "She-Wolf of London" in 1946 and "Bury Me Dead" in 1947. Her versatility shone through in these diverse roles. Her Broadway debut in 1947 with "For Love or Money" earned her the inaugural Tony Award for Best Newcomer. She later donated this prestigious award to the Smithsonian, a testament to her humility.
Lockhart’s fame soared when she took on the role of Ruth in the beloved television series "Lassie." This iconic part made her a household name across America. Equally memorable was her portrayal of Maureen Robinson in "Lost in Space," another cultural touchstone. Her work in this sci-fi series resonated with generations of fans. Her connection to "Lost in Space" extended beyond acting, as she became a NASA spokesperson. She attended countless launches and landings, inspiring future explorers.
In 2013, NASA recognized her contributions with the Exceptional Public Achievement Medal. This honor highlighted her impact on public interest in space exploration. Lockhart also appeared in the 1998 movie adaptation of "Lost in Space" and the 2021 Netflix series reboot. These cameos delighted longtime admirers of her work.
Her daughter, June Elizabeth, reflected on Lockhart’s passions beyond acting. “Mommy always considered acting as her craft, her vocation, but her true passions were journalism, politics, science and NASA,” she said.
June Elizabeth also shared how much the NASA connection meant to her mother. “She cherished playing her role in 'Lost in Space' and she was delighted to know that she inspired many future astronauts, as they would remind her on visits to NASA,” she noted.
“That meant even more to her than the hundreds of television and movie roles she played,” June Elizabeth added. This sentiment underscored Lockhart’s deep pride in her influence. Lockhart’s television career was incredibly prolific, spanning numerous shows over decades. She appeared in classics like "Gunsmoke," "Perry Mason," "Bewitched," and "Happy Days."
Her resume also included "Magnum P.I.," "Falcon Crest," "Full House," and "Roseanne." Later roles in "7th Heaven," "Beverly Hills 90210," and "Grey’s Anatomy" showcased her enduring appeal. Lockhart’s cinematic journey continued into later years with films like "Troll" in 1986 and "One Night at McCool’s" in 2001. She remained a familiar face to new audiences. Her achievements were celebrated with two Stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. One honored her contributions to film, the other to television.
On Thursday night, Lockhart passed away peacefully at her Santa Monica home. She was surrounded by her daughter, June Elizabeth, and granddaughter, Christianna, in her final moments. Her death was attributed to natural causes, fitting for a life so fully lived. She reached the remarkable age of 100, a milestone few achieve. Instead of flowers, the family has requested donations to meaningful causes. These include The Actors Fund, ProPublica, and International Hearing Dog, Inc.
Lockhart’s legacy is one of talent, dedication, and inspiration. Her work touched countless lives through screens big and small. From her early days on stage to her later advocacy for space exploration, she remained a dynamic force. Her story is one of perseverance and passion.
As fans and family mourn her loss, they also celebrate her extraordinary contributions. June Lockhart’s name will forever echo in Hollywood history.