June Lockhart is beloved for her roles as iconic TV moms, but her career, which spans nine decades, includes much more. She starred on “Lassie” from 1958 to 1964 as Ruth Martin, Timmy’s mother (played by Jon Provost), who was Lassie’s companion.
From 1965 to 1968, she played Dr. Maureen Robinson, the family matriarch on “Lost in Space.” Lockhart’s career has continued with many other projects, and she’s also a mother and grandmother.
Extensive Television Career
Beyond “Lassie” and “Lost in Space,” Lockhart appeared in series like “Bewitched,” “Petticoat Junction,” “Magnum, P.I.,” “Step by Step,” and “Beverly Hills, 90210.”
She also appeared in nearly 40 episodes of “General Hospital.” Her more recent work includes a 2006 episode of “Grey’s Anatomy,” the TV movie “Holiday in Handcuffs” (2006), and the 2016 film “The Remake.”
Stage Success and NASA Involvement
Lockhart has also made her mark on stage, receiving the Tony Award for Outstanding Performance by a Newcomer in 1948 for “For Love or Money.”
Her interest in space exploration is personal as well as professional. A longtime NASA supporter, she was honored with the Exceptional Public Achievement Medal in 2013 for her work with the agency.
Lockhart has been involved with NASA since the 1970s, attending space shuttle launches, addressing employees, and promoting the agency.
Personal Life and Family Traditions
Lockhart has been married twice. She was married to John F. Maloney from 1951 to 1959, and they had two children, June Elizabeth and Anne Lockhart, who is also an actor. She married John Lindsay in 1959, and they divorced in 1970.
In a 2014 interview with the Fayette Tribune, Lockhart fondly remembered her first movie, 1938’s “A Christmas Carol,” in which she starred with her actor parents, Gene and Kathleen Lockhart.
Watching the movie has become a family tradition, and Lockhart enjoys watching it with her daughter, Junie, and granddaughter, Christianna. The family laughs at her first movie line, “I know, I know–sausages!” which has become a cherished family joke.
Lockhart’s Perspective on Life
In a 2015 interview with The Daily Item, Lockhart opened up about her perspective on life. “I’ve had many opportunities that just dropped into my lap over the years, and I’m glad I was equal to them,” she said. “I used to think 90, gosh, that’s old. But I feel 55. I’m very fortunate to still be active and working.”
