‘Footloose’ Star Lynne Marta Dies at 78

Actress Lynne Marta, best known for her roles in “Footloose” and “Joe Kidd,” has passed away in California.

Marta died at her L.A. home on Thursday after being diagnosed with cancer, as reported by the Hollywood Reporter. The specific type of cancer was not disclosed.

Hailing from New Jersey, Marta relocated to Hollywood to pursue an acting career, landing significant roles in various major films. She played Elma in the 1972 western classic “Joe Kidd,” alongside Clint Eastwood and Robert Duvall. Additionally, she portrayed Lulu Warnicker alongside Kevin Bacon as Ren in 1984’s “Footloose.”

Regarding her television work, Marta appeared in shows such as producer Aaron Spelling‘s “The Mod Squad,” “The Rookies,” “Starsky & Hutch,” “Charlie’s Angels,” and “Matt Houston.” She also had minor roles in productions by Quinn Martin, including “The F.B.I.,” “Dan August,” “Cannon,” “The Streets of San Francisco,” “Barnaby Jones,” “The Manhunter,” and “Caribe.”

Her personal life intersected with her career. Marta was rumored to have an open relationship with “Starsky & Hutch” star David Soul while being married to Karen Carlson.

In 1983, People magazine noted, “Throughout the ‘Starsky & Hutch’ years, David and Lynne lived together but spent time with other people.” Earlier this month, Soul passed away at the age of 80 … the cause of his death remains undisclosed.

Lynne Marta was 78 years old.