June Lockhart, a legendary figure in the entertainment industry for nearly eight remarkable decades, is poised to celebrate her 98th birthday on June 25th this year. Her enduring career has left an indelible imprint on the world of television, with iconic roles in beloved series such as «Lost in Space» and «Lassie,» where she portrayed mothers and received acclaim for her performances.
Lockhart, a third-generation performer, made her early debut in the theatrical production of «A Christmas Carol» alongside her parents in 1938, marking the inception of a career that would become legendary. She often graced the screen with her maternal presence, including her role as Timmy Martin’s mother in the popular show «Lassie,» where her portrayal earned critical praise.
In «Lost in Space,» Lockhart assumed the character of Dr. Maureen Robinson, the nurturing figure responsible for the family’s sustenance and the construction necessary for their interstellar adventures. Her on-screen chemistry with Bill Mumy, who portrayed her on-screen son, was profound, with Mumy revealing that Lockhart carried a photo of an unexpected artist, David Bowie.
Lockhart’s remarkable contributions to the entertainment industry earned her not just one, but two stars on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame. One was in recognition of her work in motion pictures, and the other celebrated her achievements in television. In a remarkable feat, she received both stars on the same day in 1960. Furthermore, her exceptional efforts in promoting space exploration earned her NASA’s Exceptional Public Achievement Medal.
Throughout her extensive career, Lockhart graced the screens of iconic shows like «Grey’s Anatomy,» «7th Heaven,» and «General Hospital.» She is the proud mother of two daughters, Anne Lockhart and Lizabeth Lockhart, from her marriage to John Maloney, a union that lasted eight years from 1951 to 1959.
Reflecting on her illustrious career, Lockhart humorously recalled her first words spoken in a film, «I know, I know—sausages!» She cherishes the tradition of watching this film with her family each year, now even with her beloved grandchildren.
While Lockhart has not made public appearances since 2015, she remains a timeless figure in Hollywood, celebrated for her invaluable contributions to the world of entertainment. In a 2015 interview, she expressed gratitude for the opportunities that enriched her life and conveyed a sense of youthful vitality despite her age, saying, «I used to think 90, gosh, that’s old. But I feel 55. I’m very fortunate to still be active and working.»
