The actress, known for her unforgettable roles, passed away on March 31. Her brother, Dave Myrabo, confirmed the news.
Patty Maloney, the beloved actress who enchanted audiences with her roles on Little House on the Prairie and the Star Wars Holiday Special, has passed away at the age of 89. Her brother, Dave Myrabo, shared with The Hollywood Reporter that she passed peacefully on Monday, March 31, in Winter Park, Florida, after years of health struggles, including several strokes.
“For a little person growing up in a big world, she did everything she wanted to do,” Myrabo reflected on his sister’s extraordinary life.
A Life Full of Passion, Talent, and Resilience
Patty Maloney’s career was a testament to her resilience and versatility in an industry not always known for offering roles to those who didn’t fit the traditional mold. Despite the physical challenges she faced due to her small stature, Maloney’s talent shone through, and she made a lasting impact in a variety of iconic roles.
One of her most notable roles was on Little House on the Prairie, where she played the beloved character of Anna, an endearing young girl who touched the hearts of viewers. However, that was just one chapter in her fascinating career. Maloney’s diverse roles and memorable performances spanned many different genres and mediums, from television to film, and even circus performances.
From Carnival to Hollywood: The Early Years
Before she became a household name, Patty Maloney’s journey to Hollywood was anything but typical. She spent her early years working with carnivals and the prestigious Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, where she developed a deep understanding of performance artistry. This foundation in live entertainment paved the way for her later work as a puppeteer in the 1972 Fol-de-Pol project, a filmed version of a live Krofft brothers puppet show, which captured the hearts of children and adults alike.
Star Wars, Sid & Marty Krofft, and the Magic of Expression
Maloney’s resume extended far beyond the prairie and the circus tent. She played a key role in the Star Wars Holiday Special as Chewbacca’s son, Lumpy, a character whose emotional range she conveyed through mime and movement—without uttering a single word. As Hal Erickson notes in his 2007 book, Sid and Marty Krofft: A Critical Study of Saturday Morning Children’s Television 1969-1993, her extensive dance and mime skills allowed her to express a full range of emotions, despite her facial features being fully obscured by the costume.
Her work with Sid and Marty Krofft on Far Out Space Nuts also showcased her incredible ability to communicate and captivate audiences. As the character Honk, Maloney did what few actors can: telling an entire story with her body and expressions, becoming a fan favorite despite having no dialogue.
A Diverse Career: From Ernest Saves Christmas to Married… with Children
In addition to her iconic television roles, Patty Maloney’s career spanned across film and TV, appearing in a number of beloved productions. From the quirky holiday classic Ernest Saves Christmas to the sci-fi adventure The Ice Pirates and the WWII drama Swing Shift, Maloney’s performances were always memorable, regardless of the genre.
She also graced the small screen with appearances on shows like Charlie’s Angels, The Love Boat, Married… with Children, and My Name Is Earl. Her versatility and wide-ranging appeal made her a treasured fixture in the entertainment world, one whose career continues to influence and inspire.
A Legacy of Joy and Inspiration
Patty Maloney’s early struggles with health, including being diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in 2010, didn’t stop her from continuing to inspire others with her incredible work ethic and joy for life. AMD, which impairs central vision, may have presented her with challenges, but it never defined her spirit. As her brother said, despite the obstacles, Patty lived her life with an undeniable determination to do everything she wanted to do.
Her legacy is not just in the iconic roles she played, but in the joy and inspiration she gave to countless fans who admired her perseverance, creativity, and dedication to her craft. Patty Maloney’s influence will be felt for years to come.
Rest in peace, Patty. You’ve left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. 🕊️