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Beloved ‘Lassie’ Actor Joey D. Vieira Passes Away at 80
Joey D. Vieira, renowned for his iconic role in the classic television series ‘Lassie,’ has passed away at the age of 80. His death occurred just before his birthday, surrounded by family and friends, as confirmed by his co-star Jon Provost’s wife, Laurie Jacobson Provost.
Laurie shared, “I have known him nearly 30 years. We kept in touch with Joey and his kids throughout these years.”
A Lasting Bond
During Vieira’s extended hospitalization, Jon Provost and Laurie maintained regular communication with him. His daughter, Shanyn, provided updates, including the news of Vieira entering hospice care, which tragically lasted less than 24 hours.
Laurie recalled the heartbreaking moment, stating, “Vieira died late on April 7, eight minutes shy of his birthday.” She noted that the following morning, they received the call confirming his passing.
The Close-Knit ‘Lassie’ Family
Reflecting on their memories, Laurie emphasized the tight bond within the ‘Lassie’ family, sharing that they met nearly 68 years ago. “The ‘Lassie’ family is very close,” she remarked, highlighting the enduring friendships formed during their time on the show.
Jon Provost, known for his role as Timmy, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, mourning the loss of his dear friend. He acknowledged their long-standing friendship, stating, “It’s been a hell of a week. An original ‘Lassie’ cast member, Joey Vieira, ‘Porky,’ passed last night.”
Memorable Moments and Tributes
In his tribute, Jon reflected on their initial meeting when he was just seven years old, expressing how they bonded instantly. He described Vieira as a “great guy, a talented actor, and even a successful record producer.” Jon concluded with a poignant note that Joey has now joined his son Beau in heaven.
Jon accompanied his tribute with nostalgic black-and-white photos capturing special moments they shared together. The legacy of their friendship, as well as Vieira’s career, will undoubtedly be remembered by fans of ‘Lassie.’
A Celebrated Career
Joey D. Vieira was born on April 8, 1944, in Los Angeles, California, where he commenced his acting journey. He made his on-screen debut on the sitcom ‘Meet Mr. McNutley’ and later starred in the comedy ‘The Pride of the Family’ alongside Paul Hartmann.
At just 10 years old, Vieira landed a role in ‘Lassie,’ where he portrayed Sylvester “Porky” Brockway. This beloved character captured the hearts of audiences from 1954 to 1957, appearing in a total of 91 episodes alongside the famous collie.
A Legacy of Family Entertainment
‘Lassie’ garnered significant acclaim, winning two Emmy Awards for ‘Best Family Television Show,’ and continued for an impressive 15 seasons after Vieira’s departure. He later showcased his talents in shows such as ‘Shirley Temple’s Storybook’ and ‘My Three Sons.’
Vieira’s film career included notable appearances in 1969’s ‘Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice,’ 1986’s ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,’ and ‘The Patriot.’ His versatility extended beyond television, as he also featured in films like 1971’s ‘Evel Knievel’ and 1988’s ‘Free Enterprise.’
Remembering a Life Well-Lived
In 2023, tragedy struck when Vieira’s son, Beau, succumbed to cancer. Now, only months later, Joey D. Vieira leaves behind his daughter, Shanyn, and a wealth of cherished memories for fans and friends alike. His legacy as a beloved actor will endure, and his impact on family television will never be forgotten.
As the entertainment community mourns the loss of Joey D. Vieira, reflections on his contributions to the industry highlight the importance of family bonds and the lasting connections forged through acting. The outpouring of love and admiration from fans and colleagues serves as a testament to the joy he brought into their lives through his captivating performances.
