Mariette Hartley was born Mary Loretta in Weston, Connecticut, a name she has never been fond of. Her early life was marked by the unconventional parenting methods of her grandfather, John B. Watson, a renowned behavioral psychologist who believed that children should never be held or cuddled. As a result, Mariette's childhood was devoid of warmth and physical affection, which she has attributed as the driving force behind her decision to pursue a career in the theatre.
Mariette's formal training in acting began at the Repertory Stratford, where she studied under the guidance of John Houseman. She later honed her craft at Lucille Lortel's White Barn Theatre, working with the esteemed Eva Le Gallienne. After years of honing her skills, Mariette finally landed her first film role in Ride the High Country (1962) alongside Joel McCrea.
However, it was her television appearances and sitcoms that truly catapulted her to fame. Mariette is perhaps most recognizable for her iconic series of Polaroid commercials alongside James Garner. Her impressive resume has earned her a lasting place in the entertainment industry.
Tragedy struck Mariette's life when her father took his own life in 1962. The family kept the incident a secret for 25 years, but Mariette eventually chose to share her devastating experience with the world. This courageous decision brought her widespread acclaim and recognition for her unwavering dedication to speaking out about mental health.
In response to her own struggles, Mariette co-founded a suicide prevention foundation, using her platform to raise awareness and support for those affected by similar circumstances. Her tireless efforts have made a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals.
Today, Mariette continues to thrive in the theatre and has also hosted the popular syndicated program Wild About Animals (1995). Her children, Justine E. Boyriven and Sean Boyriven, have followed in her footsteps, with Justine pursuing a career in acting and singing, and Sean graduating from film school. Mariette's remarkable life is a testament to her unwavering resilience and dedication to her craft.
