Peggy Lipton, born Margaret Ann Lipton on August 30, 1946, was an American actress, model, and singer who rose to fame in the late 1960s and 1970s. Known for her work on the television series “The Mod Squad” and “Twin Peaks,” Lipton became a symbol of the flower child movement, embodying the era’s spirit and gaining a following that transcended generations. This post explores Lipton’s life, career, and the lasting impact she left on the entertainment world.
Early Life and Modeling Career
Lipton was born in New York City to Rita Hetty Benson, an artist, and Harold Lipton, a corporate lawyer. She had a middle-class upbringing, growing up in Long Island with her two younger brothers. Peggy’s interest in performing began at a young age, and she attended the Professional Children’s School in Manhattan.
Before her acting career took off, Lipton found success in the modeling world. At just 15, she was signed by the Ford Modeling Agency, and by 19, she was already an established model, gracing the pages of popular magazines like Vogue, Glamour, and Harper’s Bazaar.
The Mod Squad and Breakthrough
In 1968, Lipton’s acting career skyrocketed when she landed the role of Julie Barnes, one of the lead characters in the groundbreaking television series “The Mod Squad.” The show ran from 1968 to 1973 and followed three young undercover detectives – Lipton’s character, Pete Cochran (played by Michael Cole) and Linc Hayes (played by Clarence Williams III). The series was unique for its time, tackling relevant social issues such as racism, drug abuse, and police brutality. It also boasted a diverse cast, something relatively rare in the late 1960s.
Lipton’s portrayal of Julie Barnes earned her four Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe award in 1971 for Best TV Actress in a Drama. “The Mod Squad” helped cement Lipton’s status as a star, making her an icon of the counterculture movement.
Singing Career
In addition to her acting and modeling pursuits, Lipton also had a passion for singing. During her fame, she released several singles, including covers of popular songs like “Stoney End” and “Wear Your Love Like Heaven.” Her 1968 hit, “Lu,” reached number 121 on the Billboard chart.
Lipton’s 1968 self-titled album showcased her gentle, ethereal voice and featured tracks such as “Laura Nyro’s Eli’s Comin'” and Donovan’s “Hampstead Incident.” While her singing career never reached the heights of her acting success, her music remains a testament to her versatility as an artist.
Marriage and Family Life
In 1974, Peggy Lipton married music producer Quincy Jones, a union that made headlines due to the couple’s interracial marriage at a time when it was still considered taboo. The couple had two daughters, Kidada and Rashida Jones, who had successful careers in the entertainment industry.
Lipton took a hiatus from acting in the late 1970s and 1980s to focus on raising her children. She and Jones divorced in 1990 but remained amicable and continued co-parenting their daughters.
Twin Peaks and Later Career
In 1990, Lipton returned to acting in David Lynch’s enigmatic television series “Twin Peaks.” She portrayed Norma Jennings, the owner of the Double R Diner, a central location in the show. Her character was known for her warmth, kindness, and resilience, making her a fan favorite. “Twin Peaks” became a cult hit, and Lipton’s performance was widely praised. The series was revived in 2017 as “Twin Peaks: The Return,” with Lipton reprising her role as Norma.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Lipton continued to act in various television shows and films, including “Wings,” “Popular,” “Alias,” and “Crash.” She also appeared in her daughters’ projects – playing Rashida Jones’ on-screen mother in “Angie Tribeca” and making a cameo in Kidada Jones’ 2002 directorial debut, “Black & White.”
In 2005, Lipton published her memoir, “Breathing Out,” co-written with David and Coco Dalton. The book candidly discussed her life, including her rise to fame, struggles with substance abuse, relationships, and her battle with cancer in the early 2000s.
Philanthropy and Activism
Throughout her life, Lipton was committed to social and environmental causes. In the 1960s and 1970s, she was an outspoken advocate for civil rights and anti-war movements. Later, she focused on environmental issues and animal rights, supporting organizations like PETA and the Natural Resources Defense Council.
Legacy and Passing
Peggy Lipton passed away on May 11, 2019, at the age of 72, after a battle with colon cancer. Her daughters, Kidada and Rashida Jones, released a joint statement paying tribute to their mother: “She made her journey peacefully with her daughters and nieces by her side. We feel so lucky for every moment we spent with her.”
Lipton’s legacy as an actress, model, and singer is undeniable. She broke barriers in the entertainment industry and used her fame to champion critical social issues. As a symbol of the flower child movement, Lipton will always be remembered for her free-spirited nature and her undeniable talent.
