Disney child star dies at 60 as tributes flood in from fans and co-stars: ‘He was incredible’
Former Disney child star Christian Juttner has died at the age of 60, his family have confirmed.
The actor, known for his roles in iconic 1970s films including Return from Witch Mountain and I Wanna Hold Your Hand, passed away at his home in Yucca Valley, California.
His daughter Aiden Juttner confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter.
Juttner made his mark in Disney productions and several notable films of the 1970s, including The Swarm alongside Michael Caine.
He also appeared in numerous television shows throughout his career, including The Bionic Woman and The Magical World of Disney.
Juttner died of natural causes on November 29, 2024 at his home in California.
His former Return From Witch Mountain co-star Ike Eisemann shared an emotional tribute, saying: “I have sadly learned that Christian Juttner, one of my co-stars in Return From Witch Mountain, has passed. He was an incredible actor, and one of the nicest people I have ever met. RIP ‘Dazzler’.”
Actress Lydia Cornell, known for ABC sitcom Too Close for Comfort, also paid tribute, writing: “Rest in peace Christian Juttner.”
Fans have shared their condolences online, with one writing: “He was in a number of good shows, including the Bionic Woman. I always liked seeing him act. A quiet innocence about him but could be a mischievous kid too. RIP.”
In Return from Witch Mountain, Juttner played the role of Dazzler, a member of the Earthquake Gang, starring alongside Sir Christopher Lee and Bette Davis.
The 1978 film was a sequel to Escape to Witch Mountain (1975) and also featured Kim Richards and Ike Eisenmann.
That same year, he appeared in Robert Zemeckis’ directorial debut, I Wanna Hold Your Hand, where he portrayed young Beatles fan Peter Plimpton.
Juttner also took on the role of Paul Durant in The Swarm, appearing with Michael Caine.
His television career included appearances in Emergency!, The Rookies, Ironside, Wonder Woman, Medical Center, Lou Grant and Alice.
His final screen appearance came in 1981 with a role in an episode of General Hospital.
Juttner’s acting career began in 1972 with his first onscreen credit in ABC’s Bewitched.
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His mother was instrumental in getting him interested in acting, leading to his early roles including student Jamie Sommers in the first season of ABC’s The Bionic Woman.
After retiring from the entertainment industry, Juttner embarked on a new career path with his father John.
The father-son duo established a glassworks business, initially launching their venture in Saint Croix in the Caribbean.
Juttner later went on to found his own glassworks business in Santa Clarita, California.