Remembering Mariclare Costello: A Legacy of Talent and Compassion
Hollywood actress Mariclare Costello has passed away at the age of 90. She died on the morning of April 17 in Brooklyn, New York. Her contributions to television and film have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Costello was best known for her role as Rosemary Hunter Fordwick on the family TV show The Waltons, which she portrayed from 1972 to 1977. This role helped establish her as a beloved figure in American television. Following this, she appeared in several other shows, including The Fitzpatricks in 1977 alongside Helen Hunt and Jimmy McNichol, where she played the matriarch Maggie Fitzpatrick.
In addition to her work on television, Costello also appeared in notable films such as After The Fall (1974) with Faye Dunaway and Christopher Plummer, and Indecent Proposal (1993) with Demi Moore and Robert Redford.
Her family shared heartfelt words in an obituary, highlighting her unique talents and personality. “Her gift was rare,” they wrote. “She knew how to get people out of their own heads, focused on a task rather than on themselves, and in doing so helped them access their own creative voices.” Beyond her acting career, Costello was also known for being a wonderful cook, rescuing stray animals, and having a talent for decorating homes.
“She was also, in every dimension of her life, someone who paid attention,” her family continued. “She could talk to anyone, was interested in everything, and was a relentless asker of questions.”
Costello is survived by her daughter Arin and her partner, Ethan; granddaughter Bird; stepdaughters Amy and Doon; and several nieces and a nephew. A funeral service will be held in New York City, with burial and remembrance planned in Peoria.
Career Highlights and Notable Roles
Mariclare Costello’s career began in 1967 with a role in The Tiger Makes Out. She later appeared in popular series such as NYPD, Pound, and Storefront Lawyers. In 1971, she delivered a memorable performance as Emily and Abigail in Let’s Scare Jessica To Death.
Throughout her career, she made appearances on various television shows, including Kojak, Barnaby Jones, Harry O, The Incredible Hulk, and Lou Grant. In 1980, she starred in the award-winning film Ordinary People as Audrey Butler.
Costello also played Helen Crane on The Little House On The Prairie in 1980. She had a standout role as Anita Boyer in the 1982 episode of Hart To Hart with Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers.
In the 1990s, she appeared on Santa Barbara, Chicago Hope, and Judging Amy. Her last TV acting role was as Helen Norris on Providence in 2002.
A Lasting Impact
Mariclare Costello’s career spanned decades, and her work touched the lives of many. From her roles on television to her contributions behind the scenes, she was a multifaceted individual who brought warmth and creativity to every project she was involved in. Her legacy continues through her family, friends, and the countless fans who admired her talent and kindness.
