Lara Parker, a beloved actress best known for her iconic portrayal of the witch Angelique in the gothic soap opera ‘Dark Shadows,’ has peacefully passed away at the age of 84.
Her daughter confirmed that she died in her sleep at her home in the Topanga Canyon neighborhood of Los Angeles on October 12, 2023.
Parker’s career took a significant turn when she landed the role of Angelique in ‘Dark Shadows.’
From 1967 to 1971, she played the central antagonist, captivating audiences with her portrayal of a vengeful witch who curses Barnabas Collins, portrayed by Jonathan Frid, turning him into a vampire. This led to a complex and enduring love-hate relationship that spanned multiple centuries.
After her character’s death, she continued to contribute to the series in a different role as Catherine Harridge Collins.
Beyond ‘Dark Shadows,’ Parker’s talent shone in various films and television shows, including ‘Save the Tiger’ (1973), ‘Jessica Novak’ (1981), and two ‘Doctor Mabuse’ films in 2013 and 2014.
Her creative abilities extended to the literary world, where she authored four books expanding upon the ‘Dark Shadows’ universe.
In a 2013 interview, Parker spoke about her transformative experience as Angelique, initially a departure from her usual roles as a ‘heroine.’
Her co-star Jonathan Frid’s encouragement to embrace her character as a ruthless and strong villain paved the way for her remarkable success.
Lara Parker’s impact on both the screen and the literary world will be remembered by fans and peers alike. She is survived by her second husband, Jim Hawkins, her children Caitlin, Rick, and Andy, as well as a grandson.
The actress was just days away from celebrating her 85th birthday at the time of her passing, and her enduring friendship with Kathryn L. Scott, a co-star from ‘Dark Shadows,’ was a testament to the connections she forged throughout her life.
Lara Parker’s legacy as Angelique in ‘Dark Shadows’ and her contributions to the world of entertainment and literature will continue to be celebrated and cherished.