Saturday, March 25, 2023

RITA LAKIN: R.I.P.


It is with a heavy heart that I report that mystery author Rita Lakin, 93, passed away on March 23. Rita was a true hero for modern women. She pushed boundaries early on in TV writing. Rita was an amazing, strong, inspiring, passionate, supportive, funny, talented, and generous woman.

I urge you to read her Hollywood memoir, The Only Woman in the Room. Rita was one of the first women scriptwriters, with credits on such TV shows as The Doctors, Dr. Kildare, Peyton Place, Mod Squad, and The Rookies. She is credited for 474 produced television scripts spanning 30 productions. She was nominated for an Edgar Award for her screenwriting, as well as receiving several other award nominations. After leaving Los Angeles and moving to Marin County, she turned to writing books, including nine Gladdy Gold mysteries (the popular Getting Old Is ... series). Her latest novel is a romantic comedy titled Prince Charming, Go Home.

A memorial service will be held on May 19. I'll post location when it's available.




8 comments:

Vicki Lane said...

I was privileged to spend some time with her at a Bcon many years ago. An amazing woman.

Priscilla Royal said...

She was an amazing person. I will miss her so much. My sympathy to her family!

Anonymous said...

😢She will be missed.

KimHaysBern said...

Thanks for telling me about Rita Lakin's memoir. It sounds wonderful. I'd like to read it.

Nan said...

I so enjoyed her work. Sorry to hear this news.

Kelli Stanley said...

Thank you, Janet, and thanks for keeping us posted on the memorial. I miss her so much!

Anonymous said...

I fell in love with Rita after devouring her Gladdy Gold series. Always felt it should be a TV series. I’m deeply saddened by her loss. 😢

C. S. Lakin said...

Please let me know when my mother's memorial service will be held and where. I only learned she died by stumbling upon some news on the internet. I can't find any info at all on her passing or what plans are being made, and my family hasn't told me anything. Thank you. Susanne Lakin (contact me please at contact@livewritethrive.com).