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Joey Vieira, ‘Lassie’ Child Star Known as “Porky” Brockway, Dies at 80
Joey D. Vieira, celebrated for his role as farm boy Sylvester “Porky” Brockway in the initial four seasons of the iconic TV program Lassie, and recognized for his appearance in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, has passed away at the age of 80. The veteran actor died on Monday, April 7, while under hospice care, with the news of his passing being publicly released recently. The cause of death has not been disclosed. His former Lassie co-star, Jon Provost, confirmed the somber news through a Facebook announcement.
Tributes from Co-stars and Fans
Provost shared his reflections online, stating, “It’s been a very difficult week. Joey Vieira, an original cast member of Lassie, known as ‘Porky’, passed away last night. I received a call from his daughter Shanyn informing me that he had entered hospice care a few days prior. I first met Joey when I was seven years old upon joining Lassie. We immediately connected and remained lifelong friends. Joey was a remarkable person, a talented performer, and even a successful music producer. Joey has now reunited with his son Beau in heaven.”
Admirers of Vieira expressed their sorrow and offered condolences in the comments section of the announcement. One fan commented, “I truly enjoyed his portrayal of Porky on the show. He was such an endearing child.”
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Another wrote, “May he rest in peace. I extend my deepest sympathy to you, Jon, for the loss of your dear friend, and to his family.” A further comment read, “So saddened to hear about the passing of Joey “Porky”. I always loved watching him on Lassie. RIP.” Another fan added, “As a child who was overweight, I related to both Larry Mondelo and Porky. We are all awaiting our time in heaven. May God comfort you and bring good memories of your friend.”
From ‘Lassie’ to Hollywood
Vieira, the nephew of legendary Hollywood musicals figure Ruby Keeler, was initially credited as Donald Keeler during his tenure on Lassie. He featured in 91 episodes of the family-oriented series from 1954 to 1957. During his time on the show, it garnered two Emmy Awards, with Vieira and co-star Tommy Rettig jointly accepting the second award at the 1956 ceremony.
His character, Porky, was known for his signature beanie hat. Following his role in Lassie, Vieira made appearances in episodes of The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, Shirley Temple’s Storybook, and My Three Sons. He often played characters similar to Porky, which led to some dissatisfaction. “I cannot express how weary I became of reciting the same lines repeatedly. Ultimately, I decided I was done with the tennis shoes and the beanie,” Vieira disclosed in a 1982 interview. He subsequently relocated to England for a year.
Later Career and Film Roles
Upon returning to Hollywood, Vieira secured roles in noteworthy films such as Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice (1969), Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986), where he famously played the pizza delivery man, Red Heat (1988), and The Patriot (2000), in which he portrayed Peter Howard alongside Mel Gibson.
In addition to acting, Vieira also worked as a record producer, composer, and director of TV commercials and corporate promotional videos.