Stella Luchetta was a woman who had a close and long-lasting relationship with Ellen Corby, the famous American actress and screenwriter who played Grandma Walton on the popular TV series The Waltons. However, not much is known about Stella’s life, as she preferred to stay out of the spotlight and keep her personal details private. Here are some facts about Stella Luchetta that you may find interesting.
Who was Stella Luchetta?
Stella Luchetta was born in the early 1900s, but her exact date and place of birth are unknown. She met Ellen Corby in 1954, when they were both working at a film studio in Hollywood. They became friends and soon moved in together in a house in Woodland Hills, California. They lived there for almost 50 years, until Ellen’s death in 1999.
What was Stella’s relationship with Ellen?
Stella and Ellen never publicly confirmed or denied their romantic involvement, but many sources claim that they were more than just friends. They were often seen together at social events and on the set of The Waltons, where Stella sometimes helped Ellen with her lines and makeup. They also shared a bank account and a car, and named each other as beneficiaries in their wills.
According to Heightline, Stella was Ellen’s partner who was in a relationship with the actress for nearly five decades. However, according to Showbiz Corner, they presented themselves as good friends on the media. Some speculate that they kept their relationship secret because of the social stigma and discrimination that LGBTQ+ people faced at the time.
How did Stella support Ellen?
Stella was a loyal and devoted companion to Ellen, especially after Ellen suffered a stroke in 1976 that left her partially paralyzed and unable to speak clearly. Stella took care of Ellen’s medical needs and helped her recover. She also encouraged Ellen to continue working on The Waltons, where she received a lot of love and support from her co-stars and fans.
Stella was with Ellen until her last breath. Reportedly, the very last word that Corby said was “Love You” to Luchetta. Stella was devastated by Ellen’s death and rarely appeared in public afterwards. She died a few years later, but the exact date and cause of her death are unknown.
Why is Stella important?
Stella Luchetta may not have been a famous or influential person, but she was an important part of Ellen Corby’s life. She was a faithful friend, a loving partner, and a caring caregiver to one of the most beloved actresses in American television history. She also represented a hidden and marginalized group of people who struggled to express their true selves in a hostile society.
Stella Luchetta deserves to be remembered and honored for her courage, kindness, and dedication. She was a remarkable woman who shared an extraordinary bond with Ellen Corby. As one of the fans wrote on Twitter, “They were both LGBTQ+ The Waltons appeared on CBS between 1972-1981.” They were pioneers in their own way, and their story is inspiring and touching.