We were saddened to learn that Jimmy Hunt (1939–2025), the beloved child star of the 1953 sci-fi classic Invaders from Mars, passed away last week.

Jimmy’s acting career began at a young age, and throughout the 1950s he appeared in a range of memorable films and television shows. From family comedies to thrillers, he brought a natural charm and authenticity to every role, with Invaders from Mars cementing his place in film history.

We had the privilege of working closely with Jimmy on our 4K release of Invaders from Mars here at Ignite Films. He was always so gracious with his time, sharing stories, memories, and a genuine warmth that made every interaction special. Most of all, he truly enjoyed being part of the film’s restoration. Taking part in that process meant a great deal to him, and seeing the finished work brought him genuine happiness. With a smile, he remarked, “It probably looks better than it did at the original release.”

Among our many wonderful moments with Jimmy, one of the true highlights was sharing the stage with him at the Saturn Awards. His joy and pride in celebrating the legacy of Invaders from Mars was unforgettable.

Jimmy’s work touched generations of fans, and his kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who met him. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on through the timeless film he helped bring to life.

Thank you, Jimmy, for everything.

— All of us at Ignite Films