The cast of The Waltons, then and now

Richard Thomas (John-Boy Walton)

Then: Richard Thomas was the breakout star as John-Boy, the eldest Walton sibling, who dreamed of becoming a writer. His heartfelt portrayal earned him an Emmy in 1973. He left the show after five seasons but reprised the role in several Waltons TV movies.

Now: Richard has maintained a prominent acting career. He appeared in notable projects like The Americans (2013–2016), Ozark (2022), and toured as Atticus Finch in a stage adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird. He also narrated the CW’s The Waltons’ Homecoming​.

Michael Learned (Olivia Walton)

Then: Michael Learned played Olivia, the nurturing matriarch of the Walton family, and won three Emmy Awards for her role. She left the series in its seventh season to pursue other projects.

Now: Michael continues acting into her 80s, appearing in Netflix's Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story as Dahmer’s grandmother. She also starred in Nurse, a role that won her another Emmy, and performs on stage​.

Ralph Waite (John Walton Sr.)

Then: Ralph Waite portrayed the hard-working and wise John Walton Sr. He was a cornerstone of the family dynamic, balancing warmth and authority.

Now: Ralph had a vibrant career after The Waltons, appearing in NCIS and Days of Our Lives. He passed away in 2014 at age 85, leaving a lasting legacy​.

Judy Norton (Mary Ellen Walton)

Then: Judy Norton played Mary Ellen, the eldest Walton daughter, who aspired to become a nurse. She matured from a tomboy to a responsible young woman during the series.

Now: Judy transitioned to writing, directing, and independent films. She appeared in The Quarantine Bunch (2021) and the thriller Motorvation (2022). She also hosts a YouTube channel sharing behind-the-scenes stories about The Waltons​.

Jon Walmsley (Jason Walton)

Then: As Jason, Jon Walmsley showcased his musical talents, playing a character passionate about music and family values.

Now: Jon focused on his music career, performing with legends like Gregg Allman and The Doobie Brothers. His solo album Goin’ to Clarksdale was released in 2017. He now resides in England with his wife​.

Mary McDonough (Erin Walton)

Then: Mary McDonough played Erin, the sensitive and earnest middle Walton daughter. Her character explored themes of self-worth and independence.

Now: Mary transitioned into writing, penning a memoir and novels like Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane, which was adapted into a Hallmark movie. She is also an advocate for women's health issues and shares her experiences living with lupus​.

Eric Scott (Ben Walton)

Then: Eric played Ben Walton, the entrepreneurial and sometimes mischievous fourth Walton sibling. His character often challenged his father’s authority but maintained strong family ties.

Now: Eric stepped away from acting and owns a parcel delivery service in California. He’s semi-retired and enjoys family life with his wife and children​.

David W. Harper (Jim-Bob Walton)

Then: David portrayed Jim-Bob, the youngest Walton son, a dreamer who aspired to be a pilot. His role brought a mix of humour and depth to the series.

Now: David left acting after The Waltons and explored various odd jobs while studying business. Though not in the spotlight, he participates in cast reunions​.

Kami Cotler (Elizabeth Walton)

Then: As Elizabeth, the youngest Walton sibling, Kami Cotler brought a precocious and charming presence to the series, growing up on-screen.

Now: Kami pursued a career in education, founding a charter school and working as a consultant. She occasionally appears at Waltons reunions​.

The legacy of The Waltons remains strong, with cast members contributing to television, literature, music, and education while fondly remembering their time on the iconic show.

Source: Some or all of the content was generated using an AI language model