June Lockhart is cherished for her iconic roles as TV moms, but her career, spanning nine decades, includes much more. She starred as Ruth Martin, Timmy’s mother (played by Jon Provost), on “Lassie” from 1958 to 1964, where she became beloved as Lassie’s companion.
From 1965 to 1968, she took on the role of Dr. Maureen Robinson, the matriarch of the family on “Lost in Space.” Lockhart’s extensive career has continued through the years, and she is also a proud mother and grandmother.
Extensive Television Career
Beyond “Lassie” and “Lost in Space,” Lockhart made appearances in a variety of popular series, including “Bewitched,” “Petticoat Junction,” “Magnum, P.I.,” “Step by Step,” and “Beverly Hills, 90210.”
She also appeared in nearly 40 episodes of “General Hospital.” In more recent years, Lockhart had roles in 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’s talents extend to the stage, where she earned a Tony Award for Outstanding Performance by a Newcomer in 1948 for “For Love or Money.”
Her interest in space exploration is both professional and personal. As 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’s work.
Personal Life and Family Traditions
Lockhart has been married twice. Her first marriage was to John F. Maloney from 1951 to 1959, and they had two daughters, June Elizabeth and Anne Lockhart—the latter also an actor. She married John Lindsay in 1959, and they divorced in 1970.
In a 2014 interview with the Fayette Tribune, Lockhart reminisced about her first film, 1938’s “A Christmas Carol,” in which she appeared alongside her actor parents, Gene and Kathleen Lockhart. Watching the movie has become a family tradition, and Lockhart enjoys viewing it with her daughter Junie and granddaughter Christianna. They often laugh at her first movie line, “I know, I know—sausages!” which has become a beloved family joke.
Lockhart’s Perspective on Life
In a 2015 interview with The Daily Item, Lockhart reflected on her life and career: “I’ve had many opportunities that just dropped into my lap over the years, and I’m glad I was equal to them. I used to think 90—gosh, that’s old. But I feel 55. I’m very fortunate to still be active and working.”
