Tinker Bell inspiration in ‘Peter Pan’ dead: ‘Search for that Second Star to the Right’
She was the inspiration for the iconic Disney character.
Mason Reed 
Margaret Kerry, the legendary performer who served as the live-action model and inspiration for Disney’s iconic Tinker Bell in the 1953 classic Peter Pan, has passed away at the age of 97.
A Legacy of Magic
The news of Kerry's passing was confirmed via a statement on her Facebook page. Surrounded by her three children—Ellen, Christina, and Eric—Kerry passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026, in Wilmington, North Carolina, following a courageous battle with lung cancer.
In a heartfelt tribute, her family encouraged fans to honor her memory: “And remember, on any given night, look up into the night sky and search for that ‘Second Star to the Right.’ Upon closer look, you might just notice that star shining a little brighter in Margaret’s honor.”
Iconic Contributions to Cinema
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the 1953 masterpiece Peter Pan featured a stellar cast including Bobby Driscoll as the titular character, Kathryn Beaumont as Wendy Darling, and Hans Conried as the unforgettable Captain Hook. The film notably premiered at the 1953 Cannes Film Festival.
Beyond the film itself, Kerry’s character became a cultural staple. Tinker Bell went on to serve as a beloved mascot for Disneyland and famously appeared in the opening sequences of The Wonderful World of Disney, where she would sprinkle her iconic pixie dust.
