Janet Landgard, known for her role in the 1968 drama “The Swimmer” alongside Burt Lancaster, has passed away at the age of 75 after a brief battle with brain cancer. Landgard portrayed the character Julie Ann Hooper in the film, a role that left a lasting impression on audiences.
In addition to her role in “The Swimmer,” Landgard also recurred as a love interest in the final three seasons of the ABC family comedy “The Donna Reed Show.” Actor Paul Petersen, her co-star from the show, fondly remembered her as “the best TV girlfriend” his character, Jeff Stone, ever had and praised her for her flawless Scandinavian beauty that left Hollywood types speechless.
Born on December 2, 1947, Landgard grew up in Pasadena and made her on-screen debut in 1963 with appearances on “The Donna Reed Show” and “My Three Sons.” Her talent quickly caught the attention of Hollywood, and she was featured alongside other rising stars on TV specials and as a hostess on “Dream Girl of ’67,” produced by Chuck Barris.
Following her role in “The Swimmer,” Landgard appeared in several other projects, including the film “Land Raiders” (1969) and the 1971 ABC telefilm “The Deadly Dream.” However, she eventually chose to leave the acting industry to pursue other interests.
Apart from her thriving career in the entertainment industry, Landgard was also known as a real outdoorswoman. In her later years, she was involved in the world of horse racing, showcasing her passion for the outdoors and her love for animals.
In “The Swimmer,” Landgard’s character Julie Ann Hooper captivated audiences as she crossed paths with Burt Lancaster’s character, Ned Merrill, during his peculiar journey through neighborhood swimming pools in suburban Connecticut. Her performance left a lasting impression, adding depth and emotion to the narrative of the film.
Landgard’s passing marks the end of an era for her fans and the entertainment industry as a whole. Her legacy as an actress and her impact on those who had the privilege of working with her will continue to resonate for years to come.
Janet Landgard’s undeniable talent and beauty touched the hearts of many, and her presence on screen will be dearly missed. While information about her survivors is not immediately available, her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and admired her.
