Peggy Lipton was an iconic American actress and model, best known for her starring role in the television series The Mod Squad (1968-1973) and as Norma Jennings in Twin Peaks (1990, 2017). Over the course of her career, she captured the hearts of audiences with her timeless beauty, charm, and versatile acting skills. Lipton’s personal life was as fascinating as her professional one, marked by high-profile relationships, family dynamics, and her rise to stardom during the golden age of television. This article delves deep into her ethnicity, career, family background, net worth, relationships, and more.
Peggy Lipton Early Life and Ethnicity
Peggy Lipton was born on August 30, 1946, in New York City, New York. She was raised in the bustling environment of the Big Apple but had her roots in a Jewish family. Her father, Harold Lipton, was a corporate lawyer, and her mother, Rita (née Benson), was an artist and a model. Growing up in an upper-middle-class family, Peggy was exposed to the arts at an early age, and this environment encouraged her natural interest in the world of entertainment.
In terms of ethnicity, Peggy Lipton was of Jewish descent, a heritage she carried proudly throughout her life. She had a mix of Russian-Jewish ancestry from her father and Polish-Jewish descent on her mother’s side. Her upbringing in a multicultural environment allowed her to develop a broader perspective on life, which she would later convey in her roles, particularly with her portrayal of strong, independent female characters.
Though she was born in New York, Peggy and her family eventually moved to Los Angeles when she was a teenager. This move to the West Coast marked the beginning of her rise to fame, as it exposed her to the heart of the entertainment industry.
Peggy Lipton Biography and Career
Early Career and Breakthrough
Before embarking on her acting career, Peggy Lipton initially worked as a model. She was discovered by a talent scout at the age of 15, and her stunning looks quickly made her one of the most sought-after models in New York City. However, Peggy soon realized that her passion was not just in posing for photos but in acting. She moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in Hollywood, which would soon skyrocket.
Lipton’s big break came in 1968 when she was cast as Julie Barnes in the groundbreaking television show The Mod Squad. The series, created by Aaron Spelling and featuring an ensemble cast of young actors, was revolutionary for its time. It depicted three young people – a black man (played by Clarence Williams III), a white woman (Peggy Lipton), and a Latino man (Michael Cole) – working as undercover agents for the police. The Mod Squad was a departure from the traditional television shows of the era, as it explored issues of youth rebellion, race, and social justice, capturing the spirit of the 1960s counterculture.
Peggy Lipton’s portrayal of Julie Barnes, a street-smart and sensitive young woman, quickly made her a household name. The series ran for five seasons, and Lipton’s work earned her critical acclaim, including multiple nominations and wins for awards like the Golden Globe. The role also solidified her place as a prominent figure in American television.
Transition to Film and Twin Peaks
After The Mod Squad ended in 1973, Peggy Lipton’s career took a slight detour. While she was hugely popular on television, she found it difficult to transition into film. She did land a few roles, including a notable part in the 1977 film The Postman Always Rings Twice and appeared in various TV movies, but none of these projects gave her the same level of success or recognition she experienced in The Mod Squad.
It wasn’t until the early 1990s that Peggy Lipton truly reclaimed her status as a television legend with her role in David Lynch’s Twin Peaks (1990). In this surreal drama series, Lipton played Norma Jennings, the owner of the local diner and a key character in the show’s bizarre narrative. Twin Peaks became a cultural phenomenon, and Lipton’s performance was praised for its depth, emotion, and authenticity. The show’s success reignited her career, and she continued to appear in various television projects over the years.
In addition to Twin Peaks, Peggy Lipton’s acting credits include notable guest appearances in shows like The Simpsons, Alias, and Boston Legal. Though she never fully recaptured the same level of fame that she enjoyed during The Mod Squad, Lipton remained a beloved figure in the television industry.
Later Career and Legacy
Peggy Lipton’s later career was marked by fewer acting roles, but she continued to work in the entertainment industry. In 2017, she reprised her role as Norma Jennings in the revival of Twin Peaks, once again proving her enduring talent. In her personal life, Lipton also pursued other interests, including writing and philanthropic work. She became an advocate for various causes, particularly those related to women’s rights, children’s health, and mental health.
Throughout her career, Peggy Lipton was recognized not only for her acting but also for her beauty and elegance. She became a symbol of the changing cultural norms of the 1960s and 1970s, representing a more progressive, free-spirited, and socially conscious approach to life and entertainment. Despite the ups and downs of her career, Lipton remained a respected and influential figure in Hollywood.
Peggy Lipton Net Worth
As of 2025, Peggy Lipton’s estimated net worth is around $10 million. This wealth was accumulated throughout her long and successful career in acting, modeling, and television. While she achieved substantial wealth from her work on The Mod Squad and Twin Peaks, Lipton’s earnings were also supplemented by endorsement deals, public appearances, and her role as a philanthropist. She had a legacy of using her fame and wealth to support various charitable causes, particularly those related to women and children’s health.
Her net worth may have fluctuated over the years due to the nature of her career, but she remained a respected figure within the entertainment industry. In the latter part of her life, Peggy focused more on her family and personal endeavors, living a quieter life compared to her earlier years of public scrutiny.
Peggy Lipton Personal Life: Age, Height, Weight, Husband, Boyfriend, Children
Age, Height, and Weight
Peggy Lipton was born on August 30, 1946, making her 79 years old at the time of her passing on May 11, 2019, after a battle with cancer. Her height was approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm), and she maintained a slender build throughout her life. Lipton was known for her natural beauty, and in her younger years, she became one of the most recognizable faces in American television.
Even in her later years, she continued to maintain her poise and elegance, often appearing in public with a sense of grace that endeared her to her fans.
Husband: Quincy Jones
Peggy Lipton’s personal life was marked by a high-profile marriage to the legendary music producer and composer Quincy Jones. The couple married in 1974 and had two daughters together: Kidada and Rashida Jones. Their relationship, though full of love, ended in divorce in 1990.
Their union was significant for several reasons. First, it was one of the most notable cross-cultural relationships of the time, as Quincy Jones is African American, and Peggy Lipton was a Jewish woman. The couple’s relationship was often scrutinized by the media, but they remained a prominent Hollywood power couple for nearly two decades.
Despite their separation, Peggy Lipton and Quincy Jones remained close friends, and their bond continued after the end of their marriage. Their two daughters, Kidada and Rashida, both went on to become successful in their own right, with Rashida Jones finding fame as an actress and producer, and Kidada pursuing a career in fashion.
Boyfriend and Relationships
While Peggy Lipton was married to Quincy Jones for many years, she was not known to have had any major romantic relationships after their divorce. Her life after her marriage was focused on raising her daughters, building her career, and engaging in philanthropic activities. Despite her significant fame, she largely kept her personal life private, especially in her later years.
There have been no reports of serious romantic relationships after her divorce, and Lipton seemed content with her family and the close-knit circle of friends that she maintained.
Children
Peggy Lipton had two daughters with Quincy Jones: Rashida Jones and Kidada Jones. Both daughters grew up in the spotlight and have had successful careers of their own.
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Rashida Jones is perhaps the most well-known of Peggy’s children. She is an actress, writer, and producer, best known for her roles in Parks and Recreation, The Office, and Angie Tribeca. Rashida has also worked behind the scenes as a producer, including producing the Netflix series Hot Girls Wanted. She has become an influential figure in Hollywood in her own right, following in her mother’s footsteps while also carving out her unique niche in the entertainment world.
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Kidada Jones is a fashion designer and model. She has worked for major fashion brands and has collaborated with top designers. Kidada has also had a brief career in acting and appeared in a few movies. Like her sister, she has maintained a relatively low-key public life but continues to be involved in the arts and fashion industries.
Peggy Lipton House and Car Collection
House
Peggy Lipton’s primary residence was in Los Angeles, where she lived for many years. While she kept most details of her personal property private, it was known that she owned a stunning home in the city’s upscale neighborhoods. After her death in 2019, the details of her estate were largely kept out of the public eye, as her family took charge of managing her assets.
She was known to have invested in real estate over the years, particularly properties that offered privacy and a sense of peace. Much of her focus in her later years was on spending quality time with her daughters and maintaining a quieter life.
Car Collection
There is very little information available regarding Peggy Lipton’s car collection. Unlike some celebrities who showcase their expensive cars, Lipton was known for living a more grounded and private lifestyle. She did not flaunt her wealth and preferred to keep a low profile when it came to her personal possessions.
FAQs
Q: What is Peggy Lipton’s net worth?
A: Peggy Lipton’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million at the time of her passing in 2019.
Q: What ethnicity was Peggy Lipton?
A: Peggy Lipton was of Jewish descent, with Russian-Jewish ancestry from her father and Polish-Jewish roots from her mother.
Q: How old was Peggy Lipton when she passed away?
A: Peggy Lipton passed away on May 11, 2019, at the age of 72.
Q: Who was Peggy Lipton married to?
A: Peggy Lipton was married to music producer Quincy Jones from 1974 to 1990.
Q: Does Peggy Lipton have children?
A: Yes, Peggy Lipton had two daughters, Rashida Jones and Kidada Jones.
Q: What was Peggy Lipton’s role in Twin Peaks?
A: Peggy Lipton played Norma Jennings, the diner owner in the surreal television series Twin Peaks.
Q: What is Peggy Lipton’s legacy?
A: Peggy Lipton’s legacy lies in her groundbreaking roles on television, particularly in The Mod Squad and Twin Peaks. She is also remembered for her advocacy work and her close-knit family.
Conclusion
Peggy Lipton’s career was marked by groundbreaking roles and an unwavering commitment to her craft. From her iconic role in The Mod Squad to her memorable turn in Twin Peaks, she became one of the most respected actresses in Hollywood. Off-screen, her personal life was equally compelling, with her marriage to Quincy Jones and her children’s successful careers continuing her legacy. Through her talent, beauty, and generosity, Peggy Lipton became a beloved figure in the entertainment world. Though she passed away in 2019, her work and influence will continue to inspire generations to come.
