Jennifer Leak, a renowned actress known for her roles in the television series “The Young and the Restless” and the 1968 film “Yours, Mine and Ours,” has passed away at the age of 76. The news of her death was confirmed by her former husband, actor Tim Matheson, on March 18. Matheson, who is also 76, expressed his sorrow over Leak’s passing in a heartfelt Facebook post.
Matheson and Leak were not only co-stars in “Yours, Mine and Ours,” where they played step-siblings, but they were also married from 1968 to 1971. Matheson remembered Leak as a remarkable woman, praising her strength, beauty, and immense talent. He also extended his condolences to Leak’s husband of 47 years, James D’Auria, and their many friends.
Leak, a native of Wales, began her acting career in the 1966 Canadian drama series “Wojeck.” She later transitioned to film, where she gained recognition for her role as Colleen in “Yours, Mine and Ours,” a comedy about a blended family with 18 children. The film, which also starred Henry Fonda and Lucille Ball, was later remade in 2005 with a new cast.
In addition to her film work, Leak was a familiar face on several soap operas, including “Guiding Light,” “Another World,” and “One Life to Live.” However, she stepped away from Hollywood in the 1980s and embarked on a new career as a real estate agent. She married D’Auria in 1977 and remained with him until her death.
Leak passed away at her home in Jupiter, Florida. Her obituary revealed that she had been battling progressive supranuclear palsy, a degenerative brain disorder, in the final years of her life. Besides her husband, Leak is survived by her brother.
Her other film credits include “Eye of the Cat” in 1969 and “The Photographer” in 1974. Despite her departure from the entertainment industry, Leak’s contributions to film and television continue to be remembered and celebrated.