Mariette Hartley is one of those rare actresses who has left an indelible mark on television, film, and stage. With her striking beauty, impeccable talent, and commanding presence, she became a household name in the ’60s and ’70s. From Emmy-winning performances to unforgettable TV commercials, she built a legacy that still resonates today.
But behind the bright lights of Hollywood, Mariette faced devastating personal struggles. She endured an unimaginable family tragedy that changed her life forever. Instead of letting grief consume her, she turned her pain into purpose, becoming a powerful advocate for mental health awareness.
So, what happened to this remarkable woman? And how does she look today? Let’s take a closer look at her extraordinary journey.
Early Life and Hollywood Breakthrough
Born Mary Loretta Hartley on June 21, 1940, in Weston, Connecticut, she had a challenging childhood. Her grandfather, Dr. John B. Watson, was a pioneering psychologist, but his controversial methods created tension in the family.
Despite these challenges, Mariette was a natural performer. She trained under renowned acting coach John Houseman and made her film debut in Ride the High Country (1962), a classic Western directed by Sam Peckinpah. This role opened doors, leading to steady work in television and film.
During the 1960s and ’70s, she appeared in some of the biggest TV shows of the era, including:
- Gunsmoke
- The Twilight Zone
- Star Trek
- Bonanza
- The Virginian
Her undeniable screen presence and ability to bring depth to every role made her one of television’s most in-demand actresses.
The Star Trek Episode That Made Sci-Fi History
For Star Trek fans, Mariette Hartley will always be remembered for her role in All Our Yesterdays, a classic episode from the original series. She played Zarabeth, a tragic and beautiful woman trapped in a distant past.
Her performance was so memorable that fans still talk about it today. Interestingly, due to network restrictions at the time, she had to wear a special costume covering her belly button—just one of the many odd censorship rules of 1960s television.
The Commercials That Made America Love Her
While Mariette had a successful acting career, many people remember her best for her series of commercials with James Garner. Their on-screen chemistry in Polaroid camera ads during the 1970s was so natural and charming that audiences assumed they were married in real life.
The campaign was a massive success, running for nearly a decade and turning Mariette into a beloved TV personality. Despite rumors, she and Garner were never romantically involved—just two great actors with undeniable chemistry.
An Emmy-Winning Turn in ‘The Incredible Hulk’
Mariette Hartley’s career reached new heights when she starred in The Incredible Hulk (1978), playing Dr. Carolyn Fields. Her moving performance won her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
This role proved she wasn’t just a character actress or a commercial star—she had the depth and skill to carry dramatic material. It also solidified her place as one of television’s most respected performers.
A Life Marked by Tragedy and Mental Health Advocacy
While Mariette enjoyed professional success, her personal life was deeply affected by tragedy. Her father struggled with mental health issues and, tragically, died by suicide when she was still young. This loss left a lasting impact on her, shaping her perspective on life and mental health.
Instead of allowing grief to define her, Mariette became a passionate advocate for suicide prevention and mental health awareness. She openly discussed her family’s struggles, hoping to remove the stigma surrounding mental illness.
She later wrote a deeply personal memoir, Breaking the Silence, in which she shared her family’s painful history and her journey toward healing. Through her work, she has helped countless people dealing with similar struggles.
Where Is Mariette Hartley Now?
Now in her 80s, Mariette Hartley remains as elegant and captivating as ever. She continues to act occasionally, making guest appearances on shows like Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Grey’s Anatomy.
She also stays active in her advocacy work, using her voice to promote mental health awareness and support those struggling with depression and suicide loss. Her resilience, grace, and strength have made her an inspiration to fans around the world.
Unlike many stars who fade into obscurity, Mariette has aged gracefully, embracing every chapter of her life with dignity and purpose.
Mariette Hartley’s Enduring Legacy
Mariette Hartley’s career is a testament to talent, hard work, and resilience. From classic TV roles to groundbreaking commercials and award-winning performances, she has left an undeniable mark on Hollywood.
Beyond her success, her greatest contribution may be her advocacy work. She turned personal pain into a mission to help others, proving that true strength comes from using one’s struggles to make a difference.
