Jessica Walters, Cherished Star of 'Arrested Development,' Passes Away

Jessica Walters, the acclaimed actress renowned for her role in “Arrested Development,” has died. She passed away peacefully in her sleep at her New York City residence on March 24 at the age of 80. “It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved mother, Jessica,” shared Walters’ daughter, who is also a senior vice president of drama programming at Fox Entertainment. She is survived by her grandson, Micah Heymann.

A dedicated performer for over sixty years, Walters found immense joy in sharing stories and bringing happiness to others through her craft. Her daughter reflected, “Her legacy will live on through her remarkable body of work, and she will be remembered for her wit, elegance, and zest for life.”

Celebrated Performances

Walters is celebrated for a variety of remarkable performances. In addition to lending her voice to Malory Archer on the animated show “Archer,” she is perhaps best known for her unforgettable portrayal of Lucille Bluth on “Arrested Development,” a role that garnered her an Emmy nomination in 2015 for Outstanding Supporting Actress, along with two Screen Actors Guild nominations.

“She was engaged and aware of everything around her. She always wanted to know what you were doing,” said Alia Shawkat, Walters’ co-star from “Arrested Development,” during a 2019 interview. “I think this mentality comes from an older era of Hollywood—showing that she respects her craft and her colleagues.”

In addition to her acclaimed role in “Arrested Development,” Walters received Emmy nominations for her work on “Trapper John, M.D.” and “The Streets of San Francisco,” ultimately winning an Emmy for her performance in “Amy Prentiss.”

A Creative Legacy

Born in Astoria, Queens, Walters grew up in a creatively rich environment. Her father was a distinguished musician with the NBC Symphony Orchestra and the NYC Ballet Orchestra, setting the stage for her future in the arts. She studied at the High School for the Performing Arts and later graduated from the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theater. Walters also appeared in several Broadway productions, including “Advise and Consent” and Neil Simon’s “Rumors,” and received the Clarence Derwent Award for Most Promising Newcomer. In 2011, she was part of the Broadway revival of “Anything Goes,” which won multiple Tony Awards.

Jessica Walters will be deeply missed.