Who was Phyllis Coates? First Lois Lanes TV Actress Dead at 96

The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Phyllis Coates, who passed away at the age of 96. Laura Press, her daughter, confirmed her peaceful demise due to natural causes at the Motion Picture Home.

Legacy of a Versatile Actress

Phyllis Coates, throughout her career, explored a myriad of genres, leaving her mark in each. “She gave so much to the industry,” Press reminisced. From her iconic role as Lois Lane to starring in Westerns and leading the adventure in Panther Girl of the Congo, Coates’ versatility was evident.

The Inimitable Lois Lane

Perhaps Coates’ most celebrated role was that of Lois Lane, the intrepid reporter in Adventures of Superman. She has the distinction of being the first actress to bring Lois Lane to the small screen. Before her TV portrayal, Coates debuted as Lois in the film Superman and the Mole Men in 1951.

During the show’s run from 1952 to 1958, which featured talents like George Reeves, Jack Larson, John Hamilton, and Robert Shayne, Coates was the sole Lois Lane of the first season. With her passing, she was the last surviving member of that inaugural season. The Lois Lane mantle was later assumed by Noel Neill from the second season until the show’s end.

Coates’ involvement was marked by commitment, even amidst challenging stunts. Reflecting on her time, she mentioned, “We were nearly blown up, beaten up… but we put up with a lot,” as she recalled in an interview with Tom Weaver for Science Fiction Stars and Horror Heroes. Despite the show’s success and a lucrative offer for the second season, Coates decided to move on, seeking different artistic pursuits.

Career Highlights and Later Years

In 1994, Coates came full circle, returning to the Superman universe, but this time as Lois Lane’s mother in ABC’s Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman.

Following her time on Adventures of Superman, Coates ventured into cinema, with notable roles in I Was a Teenage Frankenstein, The Incredible Petrified World, and Blood Arrow. She made her presence felt on TV with significant appearances in shows like This Is Alice, The Duke, and Death Valley Days.

Her final acting endeavor was in 1996’s video project, Hollywood: The Movie.