When The Sound of Music debuted 60 years ago, it became an instant classic. With Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer leading the cast, the story of the von Trapp family captured hearts worldwide. The film’s enduring charm is tied not only to its music but also to the children who played the von Trapp siblings. Among them was Debbie Turner, who stepped into the role of young Marta at just 7 years old.
Debbie Turner, unlike some of her castmates, wasn’t an established actress before joining the production. She had only appeared in commercials, while others like Angela Cartwright already had screen credits. Still, her sweet performance in the 1965 film made Marta unforgettable to audiences. Looking back, Turner admits her Hollywood career ended before it had the chance to begin — and not by her own choice.
Leaving Hollywood Behind
According to People, Debbie Turner recalled how acting opportunities quickly dried up after The Sound of Music. Casting directors often recognized her from the film, but instead of opening doors, it seemed to close them. “I just didn’t get jobs,” she explained, describing her exit from Hollywood as something beyond her control. For Turner, the beloved musical ended up being both her first and only major screen role.
Rather than dwell on the lack of acting work, Turner found joy elsewhere. She built a fulfilling life outside the spotlight, developing passions as an athlete and artist. Years later, she launched her own company, Debbie Turner Originals, where she became a wedding florist and even decorated the White House for Christmas. After more than three decades in design, she has since stepped back, embracing a quieter pace.
A Life Centered On Family
Now semiretired, Debbie Turner devotes much of her time to her family. She and her husband, Rick Larson, have been married since 1989, raising four children together. Today, the couple enjoys their roles as grandparents to 10 grandchildren, a stage of life Turner cherishes deeply. “Now it’s grandkids time!” she said with joy.
Though she stepped away from Hollywood long ago, Turner hasn’t completely ruled out returning to the screen. She explained that she would only consider roles that are wholesome, meaningful, and aligned with her values. For now, she remains proud of her chapter in The Sound of Music, a film that continues to inspire audiences six decades later.