Lynne Lipton is an American actress who’s made her mark across film, stage, and television—though she’s perhaps best known for her standout voiceover work. And really, when you think of classic 1980s cartoons, it’s hard not to mention Thundercats, the show that truly defined a generation. Lynne Lipton brought one of its most iconic characters to life: Cheetara. That role, in particular, has kept her name alive in pop culture conversations for decades.

Before she became a household voice, so to speak, Lynne Lipton was building her craft at Adelphi College—now known as Adelphi University—in Garden City, New York. She studied dance there, which probably helped shape her expressive performance style. In the early ‘70s, she stepped into the world of film with roles in some lesser-known but interesting projects. One was the family-friendly comedy Mooch Goes to Hollywood, featuring a canine lead—yes, really. Then there was the oddly titled I Could Never Have Sex with Any Man Who Has So Little Regard for My Husband, a quirky sex farce that didn’t exactly set the box office on fire but still adds a curious footnote to her early career.

But Lynne Lipton wasn’t just working in front of the camera. She also took the stage during the early to mid-1970s, appearing in Broadway productions like the revival of Sherlock Holmes and the play Boom Boom Room. These roles showcased her range and commitment as a performer, long before animation would make her a cult favorite.

Then came 1985—the year everything changed. Lynne Lipton was cast as Cheetara in the animated action series Thundercats. It was a defining moment. Though the show only aired until 1986, its 92 episodes developed a massive following. Fans couldn’t get enough, and reruns kept the spirit alive for years. On top of voicing Cheetara, Lynne Lipton lent her voice to several other characters on the show—proving her versatility behind the mic. Sure, some of those side roles were short-lived, but they still contributed to the rich world of Thundercats.

After a brief appearance on the TV comedy FM, which revolved around the chaotic life at a radio station, Lynne Lipton seemed to step back from the spotlight. For a while, she was mostly off-screen. But then, in the 2000s, she made a quiet comeback. You might’ve spotted her in guest roles on Law & Order and its spin-off Law & Order: Criminal Intent—solid appearances that reminded audiences of her grounded, compelling presence.

And of course, there was another nod to her legacy: Lynne Lipton returned to voice Cheetara—yes, again—in Family Guy Presents Stewie Griffin: The Untold Story, a cartoon that loves to wink at pop culture history. It was a fun, nostalgic callback, and once more, Lynne Lipton proved she could bring that same energy, even years later.

So whether you know her from the stage, the small screen, or the animated universe of Third Earth, Lynne Lipton remains a memorable figure in entertainment. Her journey reflects dedication, adaptability, and a touch of timeless charm.