She was a striking, often blonde actress known for her voluptuous presence and memorable performances in classic television and film. Early in her career, she took on decorative roles that showcased her charm and charisma—like her appearance in the Elvis Presley movie Clambake back in 1967. But it wasn’t long before she started making a name for herself in more distinctive parts. One standout moment came when she played Agent Charlie on the popular TV series Get Smart. Though she appeared as a fellow agent working alongside Maxwell Smart (played by Don Adams), the twist was that Agent Charlie was always seen in drag, adding a humorous and unique layer to the show’s spy spoof vibe—and people definitely noticed.

Around the same time, she landed what would become her most iconic role. In the Star Trek episode titled “The Gamesters of Triskelion,” she portrayed a silver lame bikini-clad thrall whose mission was to train Captain James T. Kirk, brought to life by William Shatner. It was a role that left a lasting impression on fans and solidified her place in sci-fi pop culture history. Throughout these years, Pettyjohn consistently brought both elegance and intrigue to her characters, making her a familiar and beloved face on screen. And even today, when fans reflect on those classic moments in television, her name still comes up with admiration.