The Waltons Reunite For 40th Anniversary: But Where’s ‘John-Boy?’
Oct. 1 2012, Published 8:00 a.m. ET
By Jon Boon - Breaking Celebrity News Reporter
“Goodnight John-Boy” became “Where on earth are you, John-Boy?” as cast members of 70s TV staple The Waltons came together to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the classic show in Los Angeles on Saturday.
The reunion was organized by Kami Cotler, famous for playing Elizabeth in the hit drama, as a fundraiser for a school in Inglewood, Calif., where she now works as a principal.
But fans were left wondering about the whereabouts of actor Richard Thomas, who was a no-show at the event.
However, fans shouldn’t have been too disappointed with the turn out at the Ebel Theatre in Hollywood.
Kami, 47, was joined by Judy Norton-Taylor, who played tomboy Mary-Ellen, the family’s eldest daughter. Judy appeared as youthful as ever in an elegant black dress.
Other stars that DID show were David Harper (Jim-Bob), Ralph Waite (John, Sr.), Mary Beth McDonough (Erin) and Jon Walmsley (Jason).
Thomas, 61, wasn’t the only star that was missing.
Michael Learned, who portrayed Olivia Walton, couldn’t attend either. The pair were both appearing in stage shows on the night.
Mary McDonough expressed her joy at reuniting with her on-screen family. She said: “We really became like siblings. We all love each other.”
The Waltons creator, Earl Hammer Junior, also spoke at the reunion. He said: “The series succeeded because the climate was right then.