Manhattan, New York – Louise Lasser, whose unforgettable portrayal of a bewildered housewife on “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman” made her a defining figure of 1970s television, passed away on July 6 at the age of 87 due to natural causes at her home. Her friend, Susan Charlotte, confirmed her death.
Born on April 11, 1939, in Manhattan, Lasser grew up in the Bronx as the only child of Sol Jay Lasser, a tax accountant and writer, and Paula Eisenreich Lasser, a designer. She is survived by her life partner, Michael Citriniti.
Lasser’s artistic journey began at Brandeis University, where she shifted from studying political science to acting, ultimately dropping out to pursue her passion full-time. This decision bore fruit quickly when she landed a pivotal role in 1962’s Broadway production “I Can Get It For You Wholesale,” stepping in to replace the emerging star Barbra Streisand. By 1967, her talents earned her a Clio Award, making her the first woman to receive such recognition for excellence in advertising thanks to a memorable Florida orange juice commercial. This success catapulted her into the limelight, leading to appearances in other campaigns for major brands like NyQuil and Excedrin.
Her marriage to comedian Woody Allen in 1966 intertwined her career with his, resulting in collaborations that shaped his early film work. Together, they created a distinctive screen presence, with Lasser contributing her voice in “What’s Up, Tiger Lily?” and starring alongside him in films like “Take the Money and Run” and “Bananas.” The couple’s relationship lasted four years, ending in divorce in 1970, but their artistic partnership left a lasting impact.
However, nothing defined Lasser’s career quite like her iconic role in “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman.” The groundbreaking series, which premiered in 1976, satirized daytime soap operas and quickly gained cult status. Lasser’s character, Mary, was a hilariously naïve homemaker navigating a bizarre world filled with shocking events. Lasser’s performance was both poignant and absurd, reflecting the turmoil of the era and earning her an Emmy nomination for her innovative work.
The same year that recognized her talent through an Emmy nod also brought personal challenges. In 1976, Lasser was arrested for cocaine possession, resulting in probation. Shortly after, her stint as host on “Saturday Night Live” blurred the line between scripted comedy and reality, creating a moment of uncertainty among viewers.
Following her early successes, Lasser continued to act in various television series, including “Taxi” and “It’s a Living.” Her later roles included appearances in “Happiness,” directed by Todd Solondz, and the 2022 film “Funny Pages.” She also made a notable return to television in Lena Dunham’s HBO series “Girls,” portraying an artist in a complex narrative involving assisted suicide.
Over a career that spanned six decades, Lasser cultivated a unique talent for embodying sincerity, balancing both humor and pathos in her portrayals. Her ability to capture the essence of characters grappling with societal expectations resonated deeply with audiences. Lasser’s work, especially in “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” showcased the struggles of ordinary women, leaving an indelible mark on television history.