Jennifer Leak, renowned for her roles in the classic film "Yours, Mine and Ours" and various soap operas, including "The Young and the Restless" and "Another World," has died at the age of 76. The actress passed away on March 18 at her residence in Jupiter, Florida, following a battle with progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare neurological disease.
Born on September 28, 1947, in Cardiff, Wales, Leak's early years were spent in several cities across the globe. She embarked on her acting career in Canada at the age of 17, appearing in the pilot of the Canadian television series "Wojeck" directed by Mike Nichols. Despite missing out on a role in Nichols' "The Graduate" due to immigration issues, Leak eventually made her way to Los Angeles.
It was in Los Angeles where Leak landed a significant role as Lucille Ball's daughter in the 1968 film "Yours, Mine and Ours." On the set of the film, she met her first husband, actor Tim Matheson, with whom she shared the screen as step-siblings. Matheson fondly remembered Leak in a heartfelt tribute, highlighting her strength, talent, and loveliness.
Following her stint in film, Leak transitioned to television, appearing in popular shows like "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and "Hawaii Five-0." However, it was in the realm of daytime soap operas where she found her true passion. She graced the screens as Gwen Sherman in "The Young and the Restless" and as Olive Springer Gordon Randolph in "Another World," earning acclaim for her performances.
In New York, Leak met her husband of 47 years, James D'Auria, whom she married in 1977. D'Auria described Leak as a reserved individual off-camera, preferring privacy over the limelight. However, when the cameras rolled, she transformed into an electrifying presence.
Leak eventually retired from acting and embarked on a career in real estate. She and D'Auria split their time between New York City and the Hamptons before settling in Florida.
Jennifer Leak leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and a loving husband, James D'Auria, and brother, Kenneth Leak. Her contributions to the entertainment industry will be cherished and remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
