Farewell to a Television Icon: Joey D. Vieira, Beloved ‘Lassie’ Star, Dies at 80

Joey D. Vieira, best remembered for playing the lovable farm boy “Porky” in the iconic television series Lassie, has passed away at the age of 80. The cherished actor died on April 7, just one day shy of his 81st birthday, after a lengthy illness.

Vieira, who performed under the name Donald Keeler as a child, captivated audiences in the mid-1950s during the first four seasons of Lassie. His portrayal of Porky Brockway, one of Jeff Miller’s best friends, charmed viewers with his signature beanie hat and loyal basset hound, Pokey. Appearing in 91 episodes between 1954 and 1957, Vieira helped establish the emotional foundation that made Lassie a timeless family series.

After Lassie, Vieira continued acting with guest roles in popular series like My Three Sons, The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, and Shirley Temple’s Storybook, while also branching into film and music. Not only a talented actor, he explored other creative avenues as a director, composer, and record producer. His last credited work came as a voice actor in the 2014 animated feature Dwegons and Leprechauns.

Tributes poured in from those who knew him. Jon Provost, who played Timmy Martin on Lassie, expressed his sorrow and reflected on their decades-long friendship. “Joey was a great guy, a talented actor, and even a successful record producer,” Provost shared. “He has joined his son Beau in heaven.”

Laurie Jacobson, Provost’s wife and a close friend of Vieira, also shared a heartfelt message, recalling his kindness, creativity, and enduring legacy. She noted that his daughter Shanyn was by his side in his final moments.

Though Vieira’s career began more than 70 years ago, his warm presence and performances have left a lasting imprint on generations of fans. He is survived by his daughter, Shanyn, and joins a legacy of beloved entertainers who shaped early American television.