Soap Star Lara Parker Dead at 84
The soap world has lost another iconic star as Lara Parker passed away in her sleep at home on Oct. 12 at the age of 84. “I’m heartbroken, as all of us are who knew and loved her.” friend and former DARK SHADOWS co-star Kathryn Leigh Scott wrote on Facebook. “She graced our lives with her beauty and talent, and we are all richer for having had her in our lives. Family meant more than anything to Lara, and they have wanted the few days since her passing to themselves.”
The actress is famous for playing the witch Angelique (among other roles) on the cult classic soap DARK SHADOWS from 1976-1971, reprising the role for the 1971 feature film Night of Dark Shadows. Her iconic character will never be forgotten by fans of the show, including actress Barbara Crampton (ex-Leanna, THE YOUNG & THE RESTLESS).
“Rest well in peace, Lara Parker,” Crampton posted to X. “You were the first horror influence upon my life. I wanted to be you when I grew up! You were iconic, beautiful, and powerful. Magical as Angelique, you started out as a guest character and were so compelling you could not be denied a regular role.”
Parker also appeared as Carol Phipps on ONE LIFE TO LIVE in 1985 and as Linda Vandenburg on CAPITOL from 1985-86. Her resume also includes guest spots on classic television series like THE ROCKFORD FILES, KOLCHAK: THE NIGHT STALKER, THE SIX MILLION DOLLAR MAN, KOJAK, HAWAII FIVE-0, and HIGHWAY TO HEAVEN as well as roles in films like Airport 1975, The Lazarus Syndrome, and Doctor Mabuse.
Parker is survived by her second husband, Jim Hawkins, children Caitlin, Rick, and Andy, as well as a grandson. Our thoughts are will her family and friends during this difficult time.
