He warmed hearts on "Lassie"—Joey D. Vieira has died at 80
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A beloved face from television’s golden age has left us.
Joey D. Vieira, who played the memorable role of Sylvester "Porky" Brockway on the classic series Lassie, passed away at the age of 80—just eight minutes before his 81st birthday.
His passing marks the end of an era for fans who grew up with the wholesome adventures of Lassie and her young companions.
His death, confirmed by Laurie Jacobson Provost, wife of co-star Jon Provost—also known as Timmy Martin in Lassie—marks the end of an era for fans who grew up watching one of America's most iconic family shows.
“The Lassie family is very close,” Laurie said in a statement to Fox News Digital, adding that they had kept in close contact with Vieira during his lengthy hospital stay and brief time in hospice.
Born April 8, 1944, in Los Angeles, Vieira began acting as a child and quickly found success.
After early roles on Meet Mr. McNutley and The Pride of the Family, he joined the cast of Lassie in 1954 at the age of 10.
His character "Porky" Brockway, a young farm boy with a loyal collie by his side, appeared in 91 episodes of the Emmy-winning series, which became a staple of American television in the 1950s.
The show’s heartfelt portrayal of friendship, family, and rural life resonated deeply with viewers, and Vieira’s role helped anchor that emotional connection.
For many, Lassie was more than a show—it was a window into a world where loyalty and love always prevailed.
While Lassie defined Vieira’s early career, it wasn’t the end of his journey in the entertainment world.
He went on to appear in other popular series like Shirley Temple’s Storybook and My Three Sons, and later found success behind the scenes as a record producer.
His creative talents spanned decades and disciplines, leaving a lasting imprint beyond his early fame.
His longtime friend and co-star Jon Provost paid tribute on social media, writing, "met Joey when I was seven years old, when I started Lassie, we hit it off and remain friends forever. "
Provost shared nostalgic black-and-white photos, calling Vieira “a great guy, a talented actor and even a successful record producer.” He added, “Joey has joined his son Beau, in heaven.”
Though the exact cause of death has not been revealed, Vieira passed away peacefully late on April 7.
According to Laurie Provost, his daughter Shanyn notified the family the following morning, just after her father entered hospice—where he remained for less than 24 hours.
Vieira’s passing has stirred fond memories for fans who recall the warmth of Lassie and the charm he brought to the screen. His portrayal of Porky, alongside the iconic collie, helped define a simpler, more hopeful time in television history—one many still cherish today.
As we remember Joey D. Vieira, we invite you to share your memories. Did you grow up watching Lassie? What did the show—and its characters—mean to you and your family? Let’s honor his legacy together.
Joey D. Vieira, who played the memorable role of Sylvester "Porky" Brockway on the classic series Lassie, passed away at the age of 80—just eight minutes before his 81st birthday.
His passing marks the end of an era for fans who grew up with the wholesome adventures of Lassie and her young companions.
His death, confirmed by Laurie Jacobson Provost, wife of co-star Jon Provost—also known as Timmy Martin in Lassie—marks the end of an era for fans who grew up watching one of America's most iconic family shows.
“The Lassie family is very close,” Laurie said in a statement to Fox News Digital, adding that they had kept in close contact with Vieira during his lengthy hospital stay and brief time in hospice.
Born April 8, 1944, in Los Angeles, Vieira began acting as a child and quickly found success.
Joey D. Vieira, who played the memorable role of Sylvester "Porky" Brockway on the classic series Lassie, passed away at the age of 80. Image source: @stnyelsholawatan / YouTube
After early roles on Meet Mr. McNutley and The Pride of the Family, he joined the cast of Lassie in 1954 at the age of 10.
His character "Porky" Brockway, a young farm boy with a loyal collie by his side, appeared in 91 episodes of the Emmy-winning series, which became a staple of American television in the 1950s.
The show’s heartfelt portrayal of friendship, family, and rural life resonated deeply with viewers, and Vieira’s role helped anchor that emotional connection.
For many, Lassie was more than a show—it was a window into a world where loyalty and love always prevailed.
While Lassie defined Vieira’s early career, it wasn’t the end of his journey in the entertainment world.
He went on to appear in other popular series like Shirley Temple’s Storybook and My Three Sons, and later found success behind the scenes as a record producer.
His creative talents spanned decades and disciplines, leaving a lasting imprint beyond his early fame.
His longtime friend and co-star Jon Provost paid tribute on social media, writing, "met Joey when I was seven years old, when I started Lassie, we hit it off and remain friends forever. "
Provost shared nostalgic black-and-white photos, calling Vieira “a great guy, a talented actor and even a successful record producer.” He added, “Joey has joined his son Beau, in heaven.”
Though the exact cause of death has not been revealed, Vieira passed away peacefully late on April 7.
According to Laurie Provost, his daughter Shanyn notified the family the following morning, just after her father entered hospice—where he remained for less than 24 hours.
Vieira’s passing has stirred fond memories for fans who recall the warmth of Lassie and the charm he brought to the screen. His portrayal of Porky, alongside the iconic collie, helped define a simpler, more hopeful time in television history—one many still cherish today.
