On Thursday, we lost a beloved actress, Lynne Marta, at the age of 78. She passed away at her home in Los Angeles after bravely fighting cancer. Marta leaves behind a remarkable legacy that spans four decades of incredible contributions to both the big and small screens.
Marta’s dear friend, Chris Saint-Hilaire, confirmed her passing to The Hollywood Reporter. Throughout her extensive career, Marta showcased her versatility as an actress, leaving an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.
An Iconic Film Career
Marta’s most prominent work in the film industry includes notable roles in beloved movies such as “Footloose” and “Joe Kidd.” In the 1984 hit film “Footloose,” Marta portrayed Lulu Warnicker, the aunt of Kevin Bacon’s character. Her performance in this iconic dance drama touched the hearts of viewers. In the 1972 Western film “Joe Kidd,” directed by John Sturges, Marta played Elma, the partner of landowner Frank Harlan, portrayed by Robert Duvall. This film also starred the legendary Clint Eastwood as the titular bounty hunter.
Impact on Television
In addition to her success on the big screen, Lynne Marta made a significant impact on television. She appeared on popular series such as “Love, American Style,” “Starsky & Hutch,” “Barnaby Jones,” “The F.B.I.,” and “Medical Center.” Marta’s versatility and acting prowess solidified her status as a respected figure in the world of entertainment.
A Unique Love Story
Tragically, Marta’s passing comes just weeks after the loss of her longtime partner, actor David Soul, best known for his role in the classic series “Starsky & Hutch.” The pair had a unique and unconventional relationship, which they described as an “open relationship” in a 1983 interview with People. Their bond endured through the years, despite the challenges they faced.
An Early Start in Entertainment
Lynne Marta’s journey in the entertainment industry began on the dance floor of “The Lloyd Thaxton Show,” a popular dance program. Her early appearances in TV shows like “Gidget” and “The Monkees” paved the way for her role in “Love, American Style,” where she appeared in 18 episodes between 1969 and 1970.
Intersecting with Hollywood History
Marta’s career intersected with Hollywood history during a tragic event. She lived close to actress Rebecca Schaeffer, who was murdered by an obsessed fan on July 18, 1989, at the age of 21. Marta courageously testified in the trial of the perpetrator, recalling the horrifying moment when she heard the gunshots that took Schaeffer’s life.
A Versatile Talent
Throughout her career, Marta showcased her talent in various genres, from Westerns to crime dramas and soap operas. She contributed to films such as “Time of Fear,” “Three Men and a Little Lady,” “Blood Beach,” “Help Me … I’m Possessed,” and “Red Sky at Morning.” On television, she left her mark on shows like “Gunsmoke,” “Kojak,” “The Rockford Files,” “Knight Rider,” “Designing Women,” “Law & Order,” and “ER.” Her final role came in 2004 on the series “American Dreams.”
Remembering Lynne Marta
Lynne Marta was born on October 31, 1948, in Somerville, New Jersey. She was the younger daughter of George, who served as the state’s air and water pollution commissioner. Marta was married to the late actor Brick Huston from 1968 to 1975, and she mourned his loss in August 2018.
As we bid farewell to this talented actress, Lynne Marta’s enduring legacy will continue to shine through her body of work, touching the hearts of generations to come. Her performances on screen serve as a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft, ensuring her place in the annals of Hollywood history.
