Updated: July 27, 2024

Mark Goddard was an actor best known for playing Major Don West in the 1960s TV series Lost in Space.

Died: October 10, 2023 Details of death: Died of pulmonary fibrosis at the age of 87.

Goddard’s early career included prominent supporting roles on the TV shows Johnny Ringo and The Detectives. In 1965, he took on the role that would come to be associated with him most, Major Don West, pilot of the Lost in Space spacecraft Jupiter-2. His character was nicknamed Crash West for his frequent spacecraft mishaps, and he and Marta Kristen, playing Judy Robinson, provided a bit of romantic tension for viewers. In 1998, Goddard and Kristen were among several original Lost in Space cast members who had small roles in the big-screen reboot of the show.

Goddard’s other TV appearances included The Beverly Hillbillies, Mod Squad, Barnaby Jones, and Jake and the Fatman. He also had recurring roles on the soap operas One Life to Live, The Doctors, and General Hospital. Notable quote “Lost in Space was a family show. People like the family, and they hooked onto the characters they could relate to. Characters that could become part of their family. They recall coming home after school and wanting to see the show. It brings you back to a time in your life that was good for most people and for some not so good but they have Lost in Space to fantasize about. from a 2015 interview for Pop Entertainment