Lynne Marta, a talented actress who graced both the television and film screens for nearly 40 years, sadly passed away on January 11th in Los Angeles. She was 78. Marta was best known for her roles on popular shows like Love, American Style and her memorable performance in the 1984 film Footloose. Her friend, Joan Sobel, expressed her sorrow on Facebook, describing Marta as “a beautiful light” and praising her as a talented actress and a beautiful singer whose voice was of the angels. Marta’s passing leaves a void in the entertainment industry, and she will be deeply missed by friends, family, and fans alike.
Early Career and Success
Born on October 30, 1945, in Somerville, New Jersey, Marta’s career in the entertainment industry began in 1966. She made early appearances on popular TV shows like Gidget and The Monkees, showcasing her talent and captivating audiences with her performances. Marta’s career continued to flourish over the years, as she consistently added television and film credits to her name. Her last credited role was in 2004, with an episode on the NBC drama series American Dreams.
A Steady Presence on Television
Marta’s talent and versatility made her a familiar face on episodic television throughout the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. She showcased her acting skills on various shows, including Then Came Bronson, Dan August, Cannon, Mod Squad, and many others. Marta’s guest appearances on popular series showcased her ability to adapt to different roles and capture the essence of each character she portrayed. Her work on Starsky and Hutch, where she appeared in four episodes, won the hearts of viewers and solidified her status as a talented actress.
As one of the Love, American Style Players, Marta was an integral part of the ensemble cast that entertained audiences with short skits between the main segments of the comedy anthology series, which aired from 1969 to 1974. Her role in the Clint Eastwood Western film Joe Kidd in 1972 was a significant milestone in her film career. However, it was her performance in Herbert Ross’s smash hit Footloose in 1984 that truly stood out. Playing the memorable character Aunt Lulu Warnicker, Marta showcased her versatility once again, delivering a standout performance as the gossip-mongering aunt of Kevin Bacon’s main character.
Tragically, Marta became a part of Hollywood history under horrific circumstances. She was a neighbor and friend of Rebecca Schaeffer, a young actor known for her role in the TV series My Sister Sam. Schaeffer was fatally shot by a stalker, and Marta had firsthand experience of the horrifying event. Living on the same floor of the West Hollywood apartment complex where the crime occurred, Marta bravely testified against the killer in court, providing vivid eyewitness testimony. Her testimony played a crucial role in ensuring that the killer was brought to justice and received a life sentence.
Lynne Marta leaves behind a remarkable legacy of talent and resilience. She was not only a gifted actress but also a beautiful soul who adored her friends, both human and furry. Her impact on the entertainment industry will always be remembered, and she will be greatly missed. Marta’s dedication to her craft and her ability to captivate audiences with her performances will forever remain a testament to her talent and passion for acting. As we remember Lynne Marta, we celebrate her life and the countless moments of joy she brought to audiences worldwide.
Marta is survived by her sister, who will undoubtedly cherish the beautiful memories they shared. Although she is no longer with us, her spirit will live on through her work, inspiring future generations of actors and artists. Farewell, Lynne Marta, and thank you for the incredible contributions you made to the world of entertainment.
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