Mariclare Costello, a familiar face to television audiences for decades, has died at the age of 90. Her passing was reported to have occurred on the morning of April 17 in Brooklyn, New York, according to the Peoria Journal Star.
A Career Spanning Television and Film
Costello was widely recognized for her role on The Waltons, where she portrayed Rosemary Hunter Fordwick from 1972 to 1977, becoming a memorable presence on the beloved series. Her television work extended well beyond that role, including a leading part on The Fitzpatricks, where she starred as Maggie Fitzpatrick alongside a young Helen Hunt and Jimmy McNichol.
She also built a steady film career, appearing in projects such as After the Fall (1974) with Faye Dunaway and Christopher Plummer, as well as Indecent Proposal (1993), which featured Demi Moore and Robert Redford.
Throughout her career, Costello demonstrated versatility, moving between television dramas, feature films, and guest appearances across multiple decades. Early in her career, she appeared in the 1967 film The Tiger Makes Out and went on to take roles in series including NYPD, Pound, and Storefront Lawyers. In 1971, she notably played dual roles in Let’s Scare Jessica to Death.
A Familiar Face Across Generations
Costello became a recognizable presence on television through guest appearances on numerous popular shows, including Kojak, Barnaby Jones, Harry O, The Incredible Hulk, and Lou Grant. In 1980, she appeared in the acclaimed film Ordinary People and also took on a role in Little House on the Prairie that same year.
She continued to work steadily through the 1980s and 1990s, including a notable appearance on Hart to Hart in 1982. Later television credits included Santa Barbara, Chicago Hope, and Judging Amy. Her final on-screen role came in 2002 on Providence, marking the end of a long and consistent acting career.
Remembered Beyond the Screen
In addition to her acting work, Costello’s family remembered her for her personal qualities and creative spirit. In an obituary, they described her as someone who had a unique ability to help others find their creative voice by encouraging focus and engagement.
They also highlighted her warmth and curiosity, noting that she “could talk to anyone” and had a deep interest in the world around her. Outside of her professional life, she was known as a talented cook, an animal lover who rescued strays, and someone with a passion for decorating homes.
Costello is survived by her daughter Arin, Arin’s partner Ethan, her granddaughter Bird, stepdaughters Amy and Doon, as well as several nieces and a nephew.
A funeral service is expected to take place in New York City, with burial and remembrance planned in Peoria, honoring a life that spanned decades both on and off the screen.
