Joanna Pettet: 60s Star, Tate Friend, Dies at 83

Joanna Pettet, a British-born actress who gained prominence in the 1960s, died at the age of 83. Her early career highlight was a role in the 1967 James Bond spoof, Casino Royale, where she portrayed Mata Bond. This film, despite a troubled production, achieved box-office success.

Beyond her film roles, Pettet became part of Hollywood lore due to her friendship with Sharon Tate. She was among the last individuals to see Tate alive in 1969, shortly before Tate's murder by Manson family members. This poignant aspect of her life was later depicted in Quentin Tarantino's 2019 film, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.

Pettet's filmography also includes "The Night of the Generals" and "Robbery." She later moved to the US and built a successful television career, appearing in numerous popular series such as "The Love Boat" and "Murder, She Wrote" throughout the 1970s and 80s.

Born in London, Pettet's father was a pilot who went missing in 1943. Her mother later emigrated to Canada, where Pettet grew up. She studied acting in New York and performed on Broadway, earning a Theatre World award for her role in "Poor Richard."