Hollywood and television fans are mourning the loss of beloved actress Mariclare Costello, who passed away on April 17, 2026, in Brooklyn at the age of 90. Best known for her unforgettable role as Rosemary Hunter on the classic TV series The Waltons, Costello leaves behind a legacy that touched generations of viewers.See More…
Fans of classic television also remember her chilling performance in the cult horror film Let’s Scare Jessica to Death, a movie that became a favorite among horror lovers over the decades. Her unique screen presence and emotional performances made her stand out in both television and film.
Born Mariclare Catherine Costello Arbus in 1936 in Peoria, she grew up in a creative and hardworking family alongside her two sisters. Her mother, who worked in state government, loved restoring antiques, while her father was a civil engineer. Those early influences helped shape Mariclare’s appreciation for art, beauty, and storytelling.
Throughout her career, Costello became respected not only for her acting talent, but also for the warmth and intelligence she brought to every role. Whether appearing on stage or in front of the camera, she earned admiration from colleagues and audiences alike.
Many fans took to social media after the news broke, sharing emotional tributes and favorite memories from her performances. For longtime viewers of The Waltons, her passing feels like the loss of another treasured piece of television history.
Though she is gone, Mariclare Costello’s work will continue to live on through the timeless shows and films that made audiences laugh, cry, and remember her for decades.
Leave a Reply