Margaret Kerry, the actress Disney’s Tinker Bell was based on, has died at 97

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I was so sad to hear that Margaret Kerry passed away at 97. She was the original inspiration for Tinker Bell in Disney’s Peter Pan – she actually helped bring that magical character to life! It’s amazing to think about how much of Tinker Bell’s personality came from her work. She’ll be dearly missed.

Margaret McCarty was born in Springfield, Illinois, on May 11, 1929. She later changed her name to Kerry and began a career as an actress and dancer in Los Angeles.

In 1949, she became known for playing Sharon Ruggles on the popular TV show The Ruggles, where she starred for three years. Shortly after, she successfully auditioned to be the live-action model for Tinker Bell in Disney’s Peter Pan, and that launched her career.

How Margaret Kerry landed the Tinker Bell gig in Peter Pan

In a 2003 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Kerry recalled the casting process, noting they needed someone young who was good at movement and dance. She wondered how you even audition for an animated character that doesn’t have any lines.

I used to practice at home in a room I’d set up as a dance space, complete with mirrors and a ballet barre. I’d put on an instrumental record on a small record player and create a silent performance, like making breakfast. I’d act out things like carrying eggs, even dropping one, and closing the fridge door with my foot – anything to add movement and tell a little story.

The following day, I went to the studio and put on a 45 record, then performed a three-and-a-half-minute choreographed mime routine to the music.

I always knew Kerry was talented, but I was amazed to learn she actually became Peter Pan for nine months! She wore a swimsuit and acted on a soundstage so the animators could get Tinker Bell just right. It’s incredible to think that all those movements and expressions helped create the Tinker Bell we all know and love!

Kerry family pays tribute to Margaret

After finishing his role as Peter Pan, Kerry made appearances on shows like The New Three Stooges and The Andy Griffith Show. He also provided voice acting for several animated series, including Clutch Cargo, Space Angel, and Captain Fathom.

She hosted a Christian radio program from 1992 to 2004 and later, in 2016, released her autobiography, ‘Tinker Bell Talks: Tales of a Pixie Dusted Life.’

Margaret passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026, in Wilmington, North Carolina, surrounded by her loving children, Ellen, Christina, and Eric. She was 97 years old and had bravely fought lung cancer.

The message concludes with a hopeful thought: whenever you look at the night sky, find the second star to the right. You might just see it shining a little more brilliantly, as a tribute to Margaret.

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2026-06-12 14:19