Mark Goddard, a name synonymous with classic television, particularly for his role as Major Don West in the iconic series Lost in Space, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
With a career spanning several decades, Goddard’s journey from aspiring basketball player to beloved actor is both fascinating and inspiring.
Let’s delve into the details of his life, career, and financial legacy.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born Charles Harvey Goddard on July 24, 1936, in Lowell, Massachusetts, Mark was the youngest of five children. Raised in Scituate, he initially aspired to be a professional basketball player.
However, his path took a dramatic turn when he decided to pursue acting. After attending the College of the Holy Cross, he transferred to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, which set the stage for his future in Hollywood.
Rise to Fame
Mark Goddard’s career took off in 1959 when he landed a role on the CBS series Johnny Ringo.
This marked the beginning of a successful television career that included appearances in popular shows like The Detectives, Perry Mason, and The Virginian.
However, it was his portrayal of Major Don West in Lost in Space that catapulted him to stardom. The series aired from 1965 to 1968 and became a cult classic over the years.
Net Worth and Financial Success
As of 2025, Mark Goddard’s net worth was estimated to be around $3 million. This wealth was primarily accumulated through his extensive career in television and film.
His earnings from Lost in Space and other television appearances contributed significantly to his financial success.
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Despite not being one of Hollywood’s highest earners, Goddard managed to maintain a comfortable lifestyle through prudent financial management.
Acting Career Highlights
- Television Roles: Apart from Lost in Space, Goddard had notable roles in series like General Hospital and One Life to Live. His versatility as an actor allowed him to transition seamlessly between different genres.
- Film Appearances: Although primarily known for his television work, Goddard also appeared in films such as The Monkey’s Uncle and A Rage to Live.
- Broadway: In 1977, he made his Broadway debut in the musical The Act, showcasing his talent beyond the screen.
Life Beyond Acting
In addition to acting, Mark Goddard pursued a career in education. He earned a master’s degree in education from Bridgewater State College and worked as a special education teacher at F.L.
Chamberlain School in Massachusetts. His dedication to teaching reflected his passion for making a difference beyond Hollywood.
Personal Life
Mark Goddard was married three times and had several children. His second marriage was to actress Susan Anspach, with whom he shared two children. His third marriage to Evelyn Pezzluich lasted over three decades until his death. Evelyn often spoke fondly of their life together, highlighting Mark’s gentle and humorous nature.
FAQs
1. Who was Mark Goddard?
Mark Goddard (1936–2023) was an American actor best known for playing Major Don West in Lost in Space (1965–1968). His career spanned TV, film, and theater, with roles in The Detectives, General Hospital, and Broadway’s The Act. Later, he became a special education teacher.
2. What caused Mark Goddard’s death?
Mark Goddard died of pulmonary fibrosis on October 10, 2023, at age 87. He was hospitalized with pneumonia before doctors discovered his terminal condition. He passed away peacefully in hospice care in Hingham, Massachusetts.
3. What was Mark Goddard’s most famous role?
He gained fame as Major Don West, the Jupiter 2 pilot on Lost in Space. His character’s dynamic with Dr. Zachary Smith and the Robinson family made him a sci-fi icon. He reprised the role in a cameo for the 1998 film reboot.
4. Did Mark Goddard have a family?
Goddard was married three times: to Marcia Rogers (1960–1968), actress Susan Anspach (1970–1978), and Evelyn Pezzulich (1990–2023). He had six children: Melissa, Michael, Catherine, Caleb, John, and an adopted son.
5. What did Mark Goddard do after acting?
He earned a master’s degree in education from Bridgewater State College and taught special education at Massachusetts’ F.L. Chamberlain School for nearly 20 years. He retired from acting in 2015.
6. Did Mark Goddard write a memoir?
Yes, he published To Space and Back in 2009, detailing his acting career, personal struggles, and transition to teaching. The book includes anecdotes about Lost in Space and his Hollywood experiences.
7. What other TV shows did Mark Goddard appear in?
He starred in The Detectives (1960–1962), guest-starred on Gunsmoke, Perry Mason, and The Beverly Hillbillies, and had roles in soap operas like General Hospital (1984–1986) and One Life to Live (1981).
8. Was Mark Goddard involved in theater?
In 1978, he starred alongside Liza Minnelli in the Broadway musical The Act, which ran for 233 performances. He also appeared in regional theater productions after Lost in Space.
9. Where was Mark Goddard born and raised?
Born Charles Harvey Goddard in Lowell, Massachusetts, on July 24, 1936, he grew up in Scituate. He was the youngest of five siblings and a star athlete in high school.
10. What legacy did Mark Goddard leave behind?
Beyond his sci-fi fame, Goddard was remembered for his kindness, humor, and dedication to education. Co-stars like Billy Mumy praised his acting talent and enduring friendship, calling him “a beloved brother” to the Lost in Space cast.
