Lydia Clarke was an American actress who is best known for her performances in “Studio One,” “The Philco Television Playhouse,” and “Detective Story.” She was recognized not only for her acting skills but also for her enduring legacy in the arts.
Personal and Family Life
Lydia Clarke was born Lydia Marie Clarke on April 14, 1923, in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. She married actor Charlton Heston on March 17, 1944, and they had two children together, Fraser C. Heston and Holly Heston Rochell. Lydia graduated from Northwestern University in 1945 and spent years honing her craft in various theaters, showcasing her talent in multiple productions.
Career
She began her career in Chicago, working in summer stock at the Belfry Theater and with the University Players at Northwestern. Clarke had significant professional experience on stage, and in late 1949, she appeared at the Blackstone Theater in Chicago, playing Mary McLeod in Sidney Kingsley’s “Detective Story.” Clarke’s work included various television shows in the late 1940s, which contributed to her recognition in the entertainment industry.
Death and Legacy
Lydia Clarke passed away on September 3, 2018, in Santa Monica, California. She was a breast cancer survivor, having undergone a mastectomy in 1991. Clarke is remembered for her contributions to theater and television, as well as her enduring marriage to Charlton Heston, which lasted until his death in 2008.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Studio One | 1948-11-07 | Mother |
| The Philco Television Playhouse | 1948-10-03 | |
| Studio One | 1948-11-07 |