Judy Stewart Merrill, born on May 7, 1951, is the daughter of iconic actor James Stewart and actress and model Gloria Hatrick McLean. This blog post delves into her life story, from her early years growing up in Hollywood’s golden era to her family’s diverse contributions to society. We will explore Judy’s upbringing, her relationship with her parents, and her life today.
Judy Stewart Merrill Bio
Judy Stewart Merrill was born on May 7, 1951, making her 70 years old today. As the daughter of legendary actor James Stewart and actress Gloria Hatrick McLean, she grew up in the limelight during Hollywood’s golden era.
Judy has a twin sister, Kelly Stewart-Harcourt, and two half-siblings, Ronald Stewart and Michael Stewart, who James Stewart adopted. Judy is married to Steven Merrill, and they have two children, David and John.
Early Life and Childhood
Growing up during Hollywood’s golden era, Judy and her siblings were exposed to the glamour and glitz of showbiz from a young age. This environment played a significant role in shaping her personal and public life. Despite the fame and attention surrounding her family, Judy’s upbringing was grounded in strong family values.
Judy and her sister, Kelly, had a close bond with their parents, who often shielded them from the public eye. They had a relatively normal childhood, attending school and engaging in extracurricular activities. However, their father’s successful acting career, which spanned over 80 films and included classics like The Philadelphia Story, It’s a Wonderful Life, Harvey, and Rear Window, inevitably influenced their lives.
Judy made appearances on TV shows like Password (1961), V.I.P.-Schaukel (1971), James Stewart: The Last of the Good Guys, and The Mike Douglas Show (1961). These appearances allowed her to maintain a connection to her family’s Hollywood legacy while carving out her path.
Parents: James Stewart and Gloria Hatrick McLean
Judy Stewart Merrill was born into Hollywood royalty. Her father, James “Jimmy” Stewart, was one of the most beloved actors of his generation. He starred in classic films like Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, It’s a Wonderful Life, and Rear Window. Jimmy was known for his “everyman” persona and down-to-earth charm. He served with distinction in World War II, rising to the rank of brigadier general in the U.S. Air Force Reserve.
Judy’s mother, Gloria Hatrick McLean, was a model and actress. She appeared in a handful of films in the 1940s. Gloria was Jimmy’s second wife; the two married in 1949 and remained together until Gloria’s death in 1994. Together, Jimmy and Gloria had four children: fraternal twin daughters Judy and Kelly, and two younger daughters Janie and Twink. The Stewart family divided their time between Beverly Hills and their ranch in Pennsylvania.
Despite their celebrity status, Jimmy and Gloria strived to give their children a normal upbringing. They encouraged the kids to pursue their own interests and passions. Judy later recalled that her parents were loving but strict, teaching their children strong values like honesty, kindness, and hard work.
Judy’s Brief Career in Television
After dropping out of college, Judy Stewart Merrill struggled to find her place. She knew she didn’t want to follow in her father’s acting footsteps. But she was at a loss for what to do instead. For a time, Judy pursued a career in television. In the early 1970s, she made appearances on game shows like Password and The $10,000 Pyramid. She even had a small role on The Mike Douglas Show.
However, Judy quickly realized that the entertainment industry wasn’t for her. She found the pressure and publicity overwhelming. “I’m really a private person,” Judy explained. “I didn’t like being in the spotlight. It just wasn’t me.”
Judy’s television career was short-lived. By the mid-1970s, she had largely retreated from public life. She focused instead on her personal life and starting a family of her own.
Marriage to Steven Merrill and Family Life
In 1976, Judy Stewart met Steven Merrill, a lawyer and rising star in New Hampshire politics. The two fell in love and married in 1977. Steven’s career took off. He was elected to the New Hampshire House of Representatives in 1984. In 1992, he ran for governor and won. Steven served as the 77th Governor of New Hampshire from 1993 to 1997.
Meanwhile, Judy embraced her role as a political spouse and mother. She and Steven welcomed two sons, David and John. The family made their home in Manchester, New Hampshire, far from the bright lights of Hollywood. “I loved being a mom,” Judy shared. “My boys mean everything to me. Raising them was the most important job I ever had.”
Judy relished the quiet rhythms of family life in New England. She volunteered with local charities and supported her husband’s political career. The Merrills were a close-knit family.
After leaving office in 1997, Steven returned to practicing law. Judy continued to focus on her family and philanthropic pursuits. The couple divide their time between New Hampshire and Florida.
Legacy of Judy Stewart Merrill
Judy Stewart Merrill’s legacy is one of passion, determination, and kindness. She used her platform not only to entertain but also to inspire and make a difference. Judy’s impact on the television and entertainment industry is undeniable. Her roles were diverse and powerful, reflecting her talent and versatility.
However, Judy’s legacy extends beyond her professional achievements. Her philanthropic efforts, her dedication to her family, and her unwavering kindness have left an indelible mark. Judy Stewart Merrill will always be remembered as a beloved actress, a devoted wife and mother, and a generous philanthropist. Her story serves as a reminder that success is not only about professional achievements, but also about the impact one makes on others’ lives.
Conclusion
Judy Stewart Merrill’s life provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of James Stewart’s family. Growing up during Hollywood’s golden era, Judy experienced a unique upbringing that was both glamorous and grounded in strong family values. Her parents, James Stewart and Gloria Hatrick McLean, were influential figures in her life, shaping her interests and values.
Today, Judy continues to value her privacy and maintain a connection to her family’s Hollywood legacy. The Stewart family’s diverse contributions to society mirror James Stewart’s multifaceted legacy, as they continue to make their mark in various fields. Judy Stewart Merrill’s life is a testament to the importance of family, privacy, and pursuing personal passions.
