Christian Juttner, a gifted child actor who charmed audiences in the 1970s with his roles in films like Return From Witch Mountain, I Wanna Hold Your Hand, and The Swarm, passed away on November 29 at the age of 60. His daughter, Aidan Juttner, confirmed his death from natural causes at his home in Yucca Valley, California.
A Star of the '70s Screen
Juttner’s talent shone brightly in the late 1970s, with three iconic films released in a single year, 1978. In Disney's Return From Witch Mountain, he played Dazzler, a member of the Earthquake Gang. Robert Zemeckis’ directorial debut, I Wanna Hold Your Hand, featured him as a Beatles superfan desperate to see the Fab Four perform on The Ed Sullivan Show. And in Irwin Allen’s disaster epic The Swarm, Juttner portrayed a boy haunted by visions of giant bees after his parents' tragic deaths.
A Lifelong Connection to the Screen
Born Christian John Juttner on May 20, 1964, in Pomona, California, he was introduced to acting by his mother, Marlene. His first screen appearance came at just eight years old, on an episode of Bewitched in 1972. Juttner went on to have a prolific career in television, with notable roles on The Bionic Woman, The Magical World of Disney, Wonder Woman, Emergency!, and Lou Grant.
A Life Beyond Acting
After attending Birmingham High School in California's San Fernando Valley, Juttner worked with his father in St. Croix before launching his own glassworks business upon returning to Southern California. He also explored special effects makeup, demonstrating his artistic versatility.
A Lasting Legacy
Christian Juttner is remembered not just for his performances but also for the joy and creativity he brought to his roles. He is survived by his mother, Marlene; his children, Aidan, Ryan, and Lucas; his ex-wife, Ann; and his sister, Shelley.
While his time in the spotlight was brief, Juttner's contributions to the entertainment world continue to be cherished by fans who grew up watching his work. Rest in peace, Christian Juttner, a shining light of the 1970s silver screen.
