She was a good-humored and intelligent lead, making her mark mostly on television. Hartley’s film career began on a high note—really, it couldn’t have started much stronger—with a starring role in Sam Peckinpah’s second film, the deeply moving Ride the High Country (1962). That early success showed just how much promise she had. But by the early 1970s, things had shifted. Hartley found herself in more formulaic projects, like The Return of Count Yorga (1971) and The Magnificent Seven Ride (1972), which didn’t quite match the artistic heights of her earlier work. Still, while her big-screen roles became less notable, the small screen stepped in to fill the gap. In fact, Hartley remained consistently busy thanks to television, where she took on memorable parts. She appeared on the popular soap opera Peyton Place, bringing depth to her character, and later starred in the sitcom The Hero, sharing great chemistry with Richard Mulligan. Through it all, Hartley proved her versatility and staying power in an ever-changing industry.
When it comes to Mariette Hartley’s career highlights, one standout in her filmography is Ride the High Country from 1962—widely regarded as Mariette Hartley’s highest rated movie. It’s a classic that really showcases her early talent and helped establish Mariette Hartley as a compelling presence on screen. On the other end of the spectrum, Mariette Hartley appeared in Encino Man back in 1992, which, while a fun comedy for some, turned out to be Mariette Hartley’s lowest rated film. Still, it’s interesting to see how Mariette Hartley’s range spans across such different genres and eras. Overall, Mariette Hartley’s work reflects a diverse and enduring career in entertainment.