Judy Stewart Merrill is the daughter of legendary Hollywood actor James Stewart and actress-model Gloria Hatrick McLean, born into one of the most famous families in America on May 7, 1951. While her father became a household name through classics like It’s a Wonderful Life and Rear Window, and her mother was admired for her elegance and philanthropic spirit, Judy chose a quieter path in life.
She valued family, education, and privacy over the spotlight, building a life of dignity alongside her husband, Steven Merrill, the former Governor of New Hampshire, and their two sons. Her story reflects the balance between being connected to Hollywood royalty and yet living a grounded, meaningful life guided by values and love rather than fame.
Profile Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Judy Stewart Merrill |
| Date of Birth | May 7, 1951 |
| Age (2024) | 73 years old |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Father | James Stewart (Actor) |
| Mother | Gloria Hatrick McLean (Actress/Model) |
| Siblings | Kelly Stewart-Harcourt (twin), Ronald Stewart, Michael Stewart |
| Education | Stanford University |
| Spouse | Steven Merrill (Governor of New Hampshire, 1993–1997) |
| Children | David Merrill, John Merrill |
| Known For | Daughter of James Stewart, private family life |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed (likely a millionaire through inheritance) |
Early Life and Family
Judy Stewart Merrill was born on May 7, 1951, in the United States. She shared her birthday with her twin sister, Kelly Stewart-Harcourt. Together, they grew up in one of the most admired Hollywood families of the time. Judy’s father, James Stewart, was already an established star by then, known for his gentle voice, everyman persona, and a career that made him one of the most beloved figures in American cinema. Her mother, Gloria Hatrick McLean, was no less remarkable.
Gloria had worked as a model and actress before marrying James Stewart, and she also devoted much of her life to philanthropic work. Judy grew up with three siblings—Kelly, Ronald, and Michael—making their home full of energy, warmth, and the values of a close-knit family.
Childhood and Upbringing
Even though Judy’s family name carried immense weight in Hollywood, James Stewart and Gloria wanted their children to live as normal a life as possible. They made sure that their home in Beverly Hills was not just about movie premieres or glamorous parties but about family dinners, traditions, and mutual respect. Childhood for Judy was not about red carpets but about being nurtured in a home where education, kindness, and responsibility were given more importance than fame. In many ways, this grounding is what later shaped Judy’s life choices.
Educational Background
As a young woman, Judy was encouraged to pursue her own path. She went on to study at Stanford University, one of the most prestigious institutions in the country. Going to Stanford gave her a chance to develop her intellect, curiosity, and independence. It was also a way of stepping outside the shadow of her father’s larger-than-life presence. At Stanford, Judy could focus on her own interests and personal development, surrounded by peers from all walks of life. The education she received there gave her not only knowledge but also perspective, and it played a huge role in shaping the way she approached life as an adult.
Career Choices
While her parents were both deeply tied to the film and entertainment industry, Judy did not follow the same path. She never attempted to become an actress or step into the limelight that so many children of celebrities often feel pressured to embrace. Instead, she chose a quieter, more private journey. That decision was a reflection of her character—she valued peace, privacy, and family more than the applause of a crowd or the glare of cameras. It is important to note that James Stewart, despite being a famous actor, was also known for his modesty and humility, and it seems those qualities were strongly passed on to his daughter.
Father – James Stewart
Judy Stewart Merrill’s father was James Stewart, one of the most beloved and respected actors in Hollywood history. Known for his warm voice, natural acting style, and down-to-earth charm, he became a household name through unforgettable films like It’s a Wonderful Life, Rear Window, Vertigo, and Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. Beyond his career in film, James Stewart was also a decorated World War II veteran who served with honor in the U.S. Air Force. Despite his immense fame, he was a devoted husband and father who valued family life deeply. His humility, integrity, and dedication to his children, including Judy, made him not only a Hollywood icon but also a role model in his personal life.
Mother – Gloria Hatrick McLean
Judy Stewart Merrill’s mother was Gloria Hatrick McLean, an American actress and model known for her elegance and charm. Before marrying James Stewart in 1949, Gloria had a successful modeling career and also acted in films. After her marriage, she became widely respected for her philanthropic efforts, dedicating much of her time to charity and community work. She was deeply devoted to her family and played a vital role in raising her four children—Ronald, Michael, Judy, and Kelly—in a loving and disciplined household. Gloria remained married to James Stewart for over four decades until her passing in 1994, and she is remembered for her grace, kindness, and strong family values.
Judy Stewart Merrill’s Siblings
Judy Stewart Merrill grew up in a close and loving family with three siblings. She has a twin sister named Kelly Stewart-Harcourt, who, like Judy, chose to live a private life away from the Hollywood spotlight. Judy also has two brothers, Ronald Stewart and Michael Stewart, who were raised with the same values of kindness, discipline, and family loyalty passed down by their parents, James Stewart and Gloria Hatrick McLean. Together, the four siblings shared a strong bond and were raised in a household where family came before fame, which helped them lead grounded and meaningful lives despite being part of a world-famous family.
Marriage to Steven Merrill
Life took a political turn for Judy when she married Steven Merrill. Steven was not a Hollywood figure but a man of politics and public service. He later became the Governor of New Hampshire, serving from 1993 to 1997. The marriage brought Judy into another world of public attention, not the red carpets of Los Angeles but the political spotlight of New England. However, just like she had done growing up in a celebrity household, Judy managed to keep her dignity and grace intact, balancing the demands of being a governor’s wife with her desire for privacy and family focus.
Family Life
Together, Judy and Steven built a strong marriage based on shared values and mutual respect. They were blessed with two sons, David Merrill, and John Merrill, and the couple worked hard to give them as normal a childhood as possible despite their father’s political career. Judy played a crucial role in ensuring that her children were raised with love and grounded principles, much like how her own parents had raised her. She was known for her quiet strength, always standing by Steven during his years in public office, offering him support through the challenges and pressures that come with being a governor.
Community and Contributions
Although Judy stayed away from Hollywood, she did not completely remove herself from public life. Over the years, she engaged in community activities, charitable causes, and initiatives that reflected the values she inherited from her parents. Like her mother, Gloria, who was very active in philanthropy, Judy contributed to her community in ways that mattered, often working behind the scenes rather than seeking recognition. This reflects her personality—never one for the spotlight but always willing to make a difference where it counted.
Relationship with James Stewart
Her relationship with her father was something that people often wonder about. James Stewart was not just a celebrated actor but also a decorated war hero, a devoted husband, and a father who took great pride in his children. Judy and her siblings grew up with a father who, despite his fame, valued home and family above all else. In later years, Judy honored his legacy by helping keep his memory alive. Her writings and reflections about him gave fans a rare, intimate look into the man behind the actor, showing his humanity, his struggles, and his deep love for his family. I
n her memoir about him, Judy described him as someone who, despite being admired by millions, still struggled with self-doubt and shyness, proving that even great men remain very human at heart.
Privacy and Personal Values
One of the defining features of Judy Stewart Merrill’s life has been her approach to privacy. Unlike many celebrity children who live under the constant gaze of tabloids, Judy made a conscious decision to live away from Hollywood’s noise. She focused on her own values, her marriage, her children, and her contributions to the community. In an age when public exposure often overshadows personal growth, Judy’s choices remind us that it is possible to live a meaningful life without being in the headlines. Her story resonates with people who value integrity, loyalty, and service above fleeting fame.
Net Worth of Judy Stewart Merrill
Judy Stewart Merrill has never revealed her exact net worth, but it is clear that she comes from a strong financial background. As the daughter of James Stewart, one of Hollywood’s most successful actors, and Gloria Hatrick McLean, a model and actress, she likely inherited part of their estate. Her late husband, Steven Merrill, also had a successful career as a lawyer and served as Governor of New Hampshire, which added further financial security to the family. While no official figures are available, it is believed that Judy is financially comfortable and most likely a millionaire through her inheritance and family wealth.
Her Legacy
Judy’s life story becomes even more interesting when you look at her in comparison with her siblings. Her twin sister, Kelly Stewart-Harcourt, also chose a private life away from acting, though she was known for her work in writing and occasionally engaging with the public on her father’s legacy. Ronald and Michael Stewart were also raised with the same values of privacy and personal choice, showing that James and Gloria managed to shield their children from the fame that could have easily overshadowed their personal growth.
Conclusion
Judy Stewart Merrill’s life shows us that even when someone is born into a family of great fame and success, it is possible to choose a different path built on simplicity, values, and love. With her father, James Stewart, remembered as one of Hollywood’s greatest actors, and her mother, Gloria Hatrick McLean, admired for her elegance and generosity, Judy inherited a legacy of integrity and strength.
Yet instead of living under the spotlight, she chose privacy, focusing on her marriage to Steven Merrill, raising her two sons, and quietly supporting her community. Her story is not about chasing fame but about living with dignity, loyalty, and balance, making her life just as meaningful as the Hollywood legacy she was born into.
FAQs About Judy Stewart Merrill
1. Who are Judy Stewart Merrill’s parents?
Judy Stewart Merrill is the daughter of legendary Hollywood actor James Stewart and actress-model Gloria Hatrick McLean.
2. Does Judy Stewart Merrill have siblings?
Yes, she has three siblings—her twin sister, Kelly Stewart-Harcour,t and two brothers, Ronald Stewart and Michael Stewart.
3. Who was Judy Stewart Merrill married to?
She was married to Steven Merrill, who served as the Governor of New Hampshire from 1993 to 1997.
4. How many children does Judy Stewart Merrill have?
Judy Stewart Merrill and her husband Steven Merrill have two sons, David Merrill and John Merrill.
5. What is Judy Stewart Merrill’s net worth?
Her exact net worth is not public, but being the daughter of James Stewart and the wife of former Governor Steven Merrill, she is believed to be financially secure and likely a millionaire through inheritance and family wealth.
