Whatever Happened to ‘The Waltons’ Kids?
The Walton family, beloved for their portrayal of a tight-knit, loving family living in the Virginia mountains during the Great Depression, left an indelible mark on television history. Running from 1971 to 1981, The Waltons captured the hearts of millions with its wholesome depiction of family life and its iconic goodnight moments. The series’ enduring popularity was bolstered by its six follow-up movies, which continued the family’s journey. But what happened to the seven Walton kids who made the show so unforgettable? Here’s a look at where they are now.
Richard Thomas (John-Boy Walton) – Age: 72
As the eldest Walton child and the heart of the series, Richard Thomas became a household name through his portrayal of John-Boy Walton. Since The Waltons, Thomas has maintained a successful career in both television and theater. He’s starred in notable roles like The Americans and Tell Me Your Secrets, showcasing his versatility across genres. Thomas returned to the Waltons universe in 2021 as the narrator for The Waltons Homecoming and again in A Waltons Thanksgiving in 2022. He has also appeared in Ozark, earning critical acclaim for his performances. In his personal life, Thomas has been married twice and is a proud father of seven, including two children he adopted from his second wife’s previous marriages. Despite the ups and downs in his personal life, Thomas has continued to thrive in Hollywood and remains an active presence in the industry.
Jon Walmsley (Jason Walton) – Age: 68
Jon Walmsley, who played the musically gifted second-oldest Walton child, Jason, has had a fascinating post-Waltons life. Although he portrayed an all-American boy, Walmsley is actually British! As expected, his love for music didn’t end with the show, and he went on to become an accomplished musician, composer, and songwriter. In the ’80s, he toured with the band alongside Richard Marx. Walmsley also voiced the iconic character of Christopher Robin in Disney’s Winnie the Pooh cartoons, bringing yet another beloved character to life. These days, he prefers a quieter life in Cornwall, where he lives somewhat in seclusion but still remains active in his music career.
Judy Norton (Mary Ellen Walton) – Age: 66
Judy Norton, who portrayed the strong-willed and caring Mary Ellen Walton, has had an eclectic post-Waltons career. After the show ended, she was eager to shed her wholesome image, which she did by posing in a 1985 issue of Playboy. Norton later became a regular participant in Battle of the Network Stars in the ’70s and ’80s. Much like her character, Norton has continued her artistic pursuits through music, and she even started a dinner theater chain in Canada. Today, she remains a working actress, living in California, with her most recent role being in the film Motorvation. In her personal life, Norton has been married four times and has two children. She was also involved in Scientology, although it’s unclear if she still practices.
Mary Elizabeth McDonough (Erin Walton) – Age: 63
Mary Elizabeth McDonough, who played the lovely Erin Walton, has had a steady career in Hollywood after The Waltons. She’s remained a familiar face on television, most recently appearing in Hallmark Movies & Mysteries’ Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane, which was based on her own novel The House on Honeysuckle Lane. McDonough also wrote a book about her experience on the show titled Lessons From the Mountain: What I Learned From Erin Walton. Beyond acting, she’s actively engaged in writing and speaks openly about her experiences on the series. McDonough is happily married to her second husband and is the proud mother of three children.
Eric Scott (Ben Walton) – Age: 65
Eric Scott, who portrayed the mischievous yet lovable Benjamin “Ben” Walton, was already an established child actor before The Waltons. After his time on the show, Scott transitioned into a successful business career, founding Chase Messengers, a parcel delivery service based in Los Angeles. He has also appeared in a few television roles but prefers to stay out of the spotlight nowadays. Scott is married to his third wife and is the father of three children. Despite leaving acting behind, he’s carved out a successful career in business and remains content in his private life.
David W. Harper (Jim-Bob Walton) – Age: 62
David W. Harper, who played the lovable but often clumsy Jim-Bob Walton, chose a different path after his fame as a child actor. Harper has largely stayed away from the public eye, preferring a private life away from the entertainment industry. He is deeply devoted to his faith and has pursued hobbies like music, history, war-gaming, and reading. In interviews, he has shared his love of jigsaw puzzles, movies, and writing, and has expressed a deep sense of gratitude for the time he spent on The Waltons. He enjoys a quieter life now and values his privacy, living a more understated life than many of his co-stars.
Kami Cotler (Elizabeth Walton) – Age: 58
Kami Cotler, who played the youngest Walton child, Elizabeth, transitioned into a career outside of acting after The Waltons ended. Cotler became a teacher and later started her own educational consulting business, helping others navigate the field of education. Interestingly, one of her first teaching jobs took her back to a rural school in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, much like the setting of The Waltons. Cotler is passionate about education and making a difference in students’ lives, while also maintaining her connection to her roots in the world of The Waltons.
Which Walton Was Your Favorite?
From Richard Thomas’ John-Boy to Kami Cotler’s sweet Elizabeth, each of the Walton kids brought something unique to the show, and they all carved out diverse careers after the series ended. Whether they chose to stay in the spotlight or fade from view, the legacy of The Waltons continues to shine brightly. Their stories of love, resilience, and growth still resonate with fans old and new, making us wonder — which Walton was your favorite? Let us know!