June Lockhart, the beloved actress who became a maternal icon through her roles in “Lassie” and “Lost in Space,” has died at the age of 100. She passed away peacefully at her home in Santa Monica, California, on Thursday, October 25, 2025, due to natural causes, with her family by her side.
Lockhart’s death was confirmed by her family spokesperson, Lyle Gregory, who described her as happy and engaged with current events until the end. She was surrounded by her daughter, June Elizabeth, and granddaughter, Christianna, at the time of her passing. The family expressed their deep loss, remembering her as a remarkable woman, mother, and grandmother, and noted her lifelong passion for staying informed through daily news reading.
Born on June 25, 1925, in New York City, Lockhart was the daughter of Oscar-winning actor Gene Lockhart and actress Kathleen Lockhart, which immersed her in the entertainment world from a young age. She made her professional debut at the age of 8 in a Metropolitan Opera production and later appeared in films, including MGM’s “A Christmas Carol” alongside her parents. Her early career flourished with a Tony Award for Best Newcomer in 1947 for her role in “For Love or Money,” a testament to her stage talent and the first such award in that category, which she later donated to the Smithsonian Institution.
Lockhart’s television career skyrocketed when she joined the cast of “Lassie” in 1958, playing Ruth Martin, the compassionate mother who cared for the orphaned Timmy, a role that made her a household name for six years. She often humorously noted that the canine star was actually male and that multiple dogs were used for different scenes, highlighting the behind-the-scenes realities of the show. This role endeared her to audiences and established her as a symbol of maternal warmth and reliability in American television.
In 1965, Lockhart transitioned to science fiction as Maureen Robinson in “Lost in Space,” where she portrayed a wise and reassuring mother navigating space adventures with her family for three years. The show’s campy appeal and her character’s resilience left a lasting impact, with Lockhart later becoming a NASA spokesperson and attending numerous launches, inspiring future astronauts. She cherished this role, often expressing delight in knowing she motivated many in the space exploration community.
Beyond these iconic roles, Lockhart maintained a diverse career, appearing in films like “Meet Me in St. Louis,” soap operas such as “General Hospital,” and stage productions like “Steel Magnolias.” She was also an avid journalist, frequently attending White House briefings and staying informed on daily news, reflecting a personal interest that contrasted with her on-screen image. Her off-screen life included adventurous pursuits like plane-gliding and tank driving, showcasing a spirited personality that defied the gentle mothers she portrayed.
Lockhart’s legacy is cemented by her ability to connect with generations of viewers through her warm portrayals, and she remained active in the industry long after her peak TV years. At fan conventions, baby boomers eagerly sought her autograph, and she reflected that having a defining role like “Lassie” was a blessing, as many actors never achieve such recognition. Her contributions to entertainment span decades, from early film appearances to voice work in animated projects like “Bongee Bear and the Kingdom of Rhythm.”
In her later years, Lockhart continued to embrace life with curiosity and joy, as noted by her family and friends, and her passing marks the end of an era for classic television fans. Her memory lives on through her work and the countless lives she touched, with the family requesting privacy as they mourn. Lockhart’s enduring influence on pop culture and her inspirational presence ensure she will be remembered as a trailblazer in television history.