Overview

Nonnie Griffin (October 22, 1933 – June 7, 2019) was a Canadian performer whose career encompassed theatre, television, film and voice acting. Born in Toronto, she became known as a versatile character actress who worked across genres—from musical theatre to children’s animation—over several decades.

Early life and stage work

Griffin was born and raised in Toronto, in the province of Ontario. Her stage credentials included appearances in musicals and plays; she was associated with productions such as Hello, Dolly! among other theatrical credits. Critics and colleagues regularly noted her comic timing and expressive presence on stage.

Television career

On television Griffin took on a range of supporting and guest roles in both Canadian and international series. Her screen work included appearances in family and genre programmes as well as dramas. Notable series in which she performed include:

  • Star Wars: Ewoks
  • Kung Fu: The Legend Continues
  • King of Kensington
  • RoboCop: The Series
  • Forever Knight
  • Bizarre
  • Strange Paradise

Film and voice acting

Griffin also contributed to feature films and animated projects. She provided voice work for children’s animation and had roles in movies such as Care Bears Movie II: A New Generation, The Believers, Good Fences and If You Could See What I Hear. Her ability to shift between on-camera parts and vocal characterisations made her a frequent choice for varied supporting roles.

Legacy and significance

As a working Canadian actress across multiple media, Griffin represented a generation of performers who maintained long careers by adapting to stage, screen and voice work. She is remembered for her warmth, comedic skill and steady professionalism; her appearances span family entertainment, science fiction and dramatic films.

Death and further information

Nonnie Griffin died on June 7, 2019 at the age of 85 from a ruptured aortic aneurysm, a sudden vascular emergency linked here. For a fuller list of credits and biographical detail see a filmography or profile entry here, and for local context about her life in Toronto consult regional archival or theatre resources here and here.

Selected credits

  • Theatre: Hello, Dolly! (stage appearances)
  • Television: Star Wars: Ewoks; Kung Fu: The Legend Continues; King of Kensington; Forever Knight
  • Film/Animation: Care Bears Movie II: A New Generation; The Believers; Good Fences; If You Could See What I Hear