For five unforgettable seasons, Kristy McNichol lit up our screens as Letitia “Buddy” Lawrence on the beloved ABC drama Family. Rising to fame in her teenage years, the star of Little Darlings has kept her personal life under wraps, sparking curiosity among fans. One question that often comes up: Did Kristy McNichol ever start a family of her own?
Does Kristy McNichol Have Kids?
Kristy's journey in Hollywood began in the early '70s with roles in Love, American Style and Apple's Way. Her breakout role came in 1976 when she joined the cast of Family, which paved the way for a string of iconic performances over the next two decades. By 2001, the two-time Emmy winner decided it was time to step away from the spotlight.
In a heartfelt statement at the time, Kristy explained her decision to retire: “A lot of people have wondered what I’ve been up to. After 24 years in the industry, I decided it was time to focus on the most important role of all—being myself! This decision has been the best thing that ever happened to me. While some fans might be disappointed that I’m no longer acting, I hope they understand that this phase of my life is crucial for my happiness and well-being.”
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In a candid January 2012 interview with People, Kristy opened up about her personal life, revealing that she is gay and has been in a loving relationship with Martie Allen for over two decades. The couple has chosen not to have children, instead focusing on shared passions like tennis, travel, and yoga. It’s clear that Kristy and Martie have built a life filled with joy, fulfillment, and mutual support.
Kristy Embraces Her Role as Aunt to Her Brother’s Kids
While Kristy may not have children of her own, she has embraced the role of aunt with open arms. Her older brother, Jimmy McNichol, also made a name for himself in Hollywood, starring in classics like Gunsmoke, Little House on the Prairie, and Shazam! In 1997, Jimmy married Renée McNichol, and the couple welcomed two children: son Nash McNichol in 1997 and daughter Ellis McNichol in 1998.
In 2010, Jimmy discovered he had another daughter, Kellee Maize, whom he fathered when he was just 18 years old. The two reconnected, bonding over their shared love for music and entertainment. As Jimmy told Pittsburgh Magazine in a June 2016 interview, “She is a ball of energy, and so am I. There are so many synchronicities in how we mesh, how we think, and how we are both extremely energetic and creative. It’s like we can’t be held down!”
