In sad news, Arrested Development star Jessica Walter has passed away at the age of 80. The talented performer from the big screen and TV died peacefully in her sleep. This comes as quite a blow for fans of her recent projects including a legendary voice role on the animated series Archer.
Walter, who first rose to prominence with the lead role opposite Clint Eastwood in Play Misty For Me, was a regular for years in everything from shows like Columbo, The Fugitive, and Flipper to films like The Flamingo Kid, PCU, and more. Her most notable role was, of course, as matriarch Lucille Bluth on FOX's Arrested Development.
Walter began her Hollywood journey in New York City when she appeared in several Broadway productions including Advise and Consent, Neil Simon’s Rumors, A Severed Head, Nightlife, and Photo Finish, which earned her the Clarence Derwent Award for Most Promising Newcomer. She also led the Broadway revival of the multi-Tony Award-winning stage drama Anything Goes.
“It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of my beloved mom Jessica. A working actor for over six decades, her greatest pleasure was bringing joy to others through her storytelling both on-screen and off. While her legacy will live on through her body of work, she will also be remembered by many for her wit, class, and overall joie de vivre,” said her daughter, Brooke Bowman, in a statement.
Married twice, she is survived by her husband of 38 years, actor Ron Leibman. Walter was set to reprise her role for the upcoming 12th season of Archer.
As a way to honor her memory, the family asks that people donate to Guide Dogs for the Blind. Through a robust network of instructors, puppy raisers, donors, and volunteers, the organization prepares highly qualified guide dogs to serve and empower individuals who are blind or visually impaired from throughout the United States and Canada.
We here at JoBlo would like to extend our sincere condolences to Ms. Walter's family, friends, and fans. Her energy and light will be missed.