Mariclare Costello, a seasoned actress, has passed away at the age of 90. Her family fondly remembers her for her passion for costumes and props, creating meticulously crafted productions. Known for her attention to detail, she had a knack for engaging with people, displaying a keen interest in various subjects and being a curious soul.
Costello was a versatile talent, notably recognized for her role as Rosemary Hunter in The Waltons. She also made a memorable appearance in the horror film Let’s Scare Jessica To Death and graced the Broadway stage in nine productions during the 1960s. She was married to the late M*A*S*H star Allan Arbus.
Her stage career began in 1964 with her debut in Arthur Miller’s After the Fall on Broadway, followed by notable performances in plays like But For Whom Charlie and The Changeling. Costello’s television credits include appearances in popular series such as N.Y.P.D, Little House on the Prairie, and Murder She Wrote. However, it was her role as Miss Rosemary Hunter in The Waltons that endeared her to audiences.
Reflecting on her career in a 2011 interview, Mariclare shared her cherished memories of working with fellow actors Richard Thomas and John Ritter. She found joy and camaraderie in their shared experiences on set.
Mariclare and Allan Arbus first crossed paths during an acting class and eventually tied the knot after relocating to Los Angeles in the late 1960s. Despite Arbus’s passing in 2013, Costello remained a pillar of strength for her family. She is survived by her daughter Arin Arbus, who followed in her parents’ footsteps as a theater director, along with other family members.
A funeral service to honor Mariclare Costello will take place in New York, celebrating her enduring legacy in the entertainment industry.
