June Lockhart dead: Lassie and Lost In Space star dies as daughter shares tearful tribute

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Hollywood star June Lockhart has died. The Lassie and Lost In Space star has died aged 100, with her daughter sharing an emotional tribute.

A family statement revealed June died of natural causes at her home in Santa Monica, California, on Thursday, October 23 at 9:20 p.m.

In moving words, her daughter, June Elizabeth, said: “Mommy always considered acting her craft, but her true passions were journalism, politics, science, and NASA. She cherished her role in ‘Lost in Space’ and was delighted to know she inspired many future astronauts.”

June was said to be by her mum’s said at the time of her death. So too was the Hollywood actress’ granddaughter Christianna.

The cast of Lassie, circa 1955


The cast of Lassie, circa 1955
(
Getty Images)

June Lockhart in 1960


June Lockhart in 1960
(
Getty Images)

Fans flooded social media with messages of condolence following the sad news. Jean-Pierre Dorleac wrote on Twitter/X: “If it hadn’t been for my dearest and oldest friend, June Lockhart, I wouldn’t have become the celebrated costume designer I became.

“June promoted and encouraged me throughout the 55 years we have known each other. What a sensational and fantastic LADY!!!”

Another user said: “Sad to learn #JuneLockhart passed away at 100. She was in MEET ME IN SAINT LOUIS with Judy Garland, LOST IN SPACE, LASSIE and more. #RIP (1925-2025)”

Family friend Lyle Gregory also shared a touching message, saying: “Now, the woman who loved to fly has embarked on her last adventure. We will miss this truly remarkable woman, mom, and grandmama — and we feel lucky to have been part of her journey.”

June had a career that spanned almost nine decades. She first began performing aged just eight in 1933 in New York. Just five years later and she was appearing alongside her parents, Gene and Kathleen Lockhart, in MGM’s A Christmas Carol.

By 1947, she had won the first-ever Tony Award, lifting the gong for Best Newcomer for her performance on For Love or Money.

Other performances came in the likes of Holiday in Handcuffs and The Remake, while she also made brief appearances on shows such as Full House.

Away from the screen, she became an unofficial ambassador for NASA. The actress often attended launches and celebrations side by side with astronauts. This included being alongside the likes of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin.

And she labelled a moment in 2013 as one of her proudest achievements. She was honoured by NASA with its Exceptional Public Achievement Medal.

June was also an advocate for animal rights. She was a known supporter of the Santa Monica Mounted Police Horses and had been a national spokesperson for International Hearing Dog Inc.

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