Robert Wightman

Robert Wightman is an American actor whose career spans stage, television, and film, marked by a remarkable versatility and dedication to his craft. Born on December 29, 1952, he emerged from the vibrant West Coast theatre scene, earning early acclaim for his performances in Tennessee Williams productions such as the West Coast premier of Vieux Carré, where his nuanced portrayal earned praise from critic Robert Osborne for being both touching and heartbreaking. His collaboration with director Karen Kondazian continued with Sweet Bird of Youth alongside Ed Harris and the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award‑winning The Rose Tattoo, a production Williams himself lauded as the best he had ever seen directed. Critics like Sylvie Drake highlighted his “excellent” Edgar in King Lear at the Los Angeles Theatre Center, while Backstage’s Hoyt Hilsman praised his “lovely and mysterious” Budge in Don DeLillo’s dark comedy The Day Room.

Transitioning to the screen, Wightman is perhaps best remembered for stepping into the iconic role of John‑Boy Walton in the beloved television series The Waltons during its eighth season (1979‑1981) and reprising the part in the 1982 TV movie A Day of Thanks on Walton's Mountain. His film work includes a supporting turn in American Gigolo (1980) and a leading role in Stepfather III (1992), succeeding Terry O'Quinn. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s he maintained a steady presence on television, appearing in series such as Capitol, Matlock, and Living in Oblivion, demonstrating a consistent ability to adapt to diverse genres and characters.