Written by: Michael Rodriguez

Marta Kristen: The Beloved Judy Robinson of Lost in Space

Best known for her iconic role as Judy Robinson, the eldest child of Professor John Robinson and his wife Maureen, in the hit 1960s television series Lost in Space, Marta Kristen has left an indelible mark on the world of science fiction and entertainment.

Early Life and Adoption

Born Birgit Annalisa Rusanen in Oslo, Norway, on February 26, 1945, to a Finnish mother and a German soldier father who was killed during World War II, Kristen's early life was marked by uncertainty and change. Her Finnish mother, desperate to spare her daughter the pain of knowing her real parents' Nazi regime affiliation, gave her up for adoption in 1949.

Kristen spent her formative years in an orphanage in Norway before being adopted by Harold Oliver Soderquist and his wife Bertha, a couple from Detroit, Michigan. Renamed Martha Annalise Soderquist, she grew up with a new family, which included an adopted brother.

Career Highlights

Lost in Space, which aired from 1965 to 1968, was Kristen's breakout role, cementing her status as a household name. Her portrayal of Judy Robinson, the smart, kind-hearted, and resourceful young woman, earned her a special place in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Before Lost in Space, Kristen had already made a name for herself in the entertainment industry, appearing in an episode of Alfred Hitchcock Presents in 1961 alongside Billy Mumy, her future Lost in Space co-star. She also starred in Four Feet in the Morning, an episode of The Eleventh Hour, in 1963.

In addition to her television work, Kristen appeared in films like Savage Sam (1963) and Beach Blanket Bingo (1965). Her post-Lost in Space career saw her feature in numerous television commercials and guest appearances on popular shows.

Personal Life and Legacy

In 1969, Kristen gave birth to her daughter, and although she continued to work in the entertainment industry, she prioritized her family life. Despite her relatively short time in the spotlight, Kristen's impact on popular culture and her contributions to the world of science fiction are undeniable.

• Her iconic character, Judy Robinson, inspired countless young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
• Kristen's Scandinavian heritage and adoptive American upbringing brought a unique perspective to her performances, enriching the roles she played.
• Her early life experiences, marked by adoption and uncertainty, have made her an advocate for adoption and children's welfare.

Marta Kristen's remarkable journey, marked by both personal and professional triumphs, has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and the world at large. As Judy Robinson, she will forever be etched in our collective memory as a symbol of hope, resilience, and determination.

Fun Facts and Trivia

• Marta Kristen's stage name is a nod to her Scandinavian heritage, with "Marta" being a more European-sounding variant of her given name, Martha.
• Kristen's adoptive father, Harold Oliver Soderquist, was a professor of education at Wayne University in Detroit, Michigan.
• Marta Kristen and her Lost in Space co-star Billy Mumy remain close friends to this day.