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Shelley Duvall, the renowned American actress known for her memorable roles in The Shining and Robert Altman’s films, passed away on July 11, 2024, at the age of 75, due to complications related to diabetes.
Shelley Duvall passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home in Blanco, Texas. Her long-time partner, Dan Gilroy, announced the news, paying tribute to his “dear, sweet and wonderful companion and friend.”
Born on July 7, 1949, in Fort Worth, Texas, Shelley Duvall was discovered by director Robert Altman at a party in Houston. Their collaboration began in 1970 with the film Brewster McCloud, marking the start of a series of acclaimed films such as McCabe & Mrs. Miller (1971), Thieves Like Us (1974) and Nashville (1975).
Duvall’s talent was recognized in 1977 when she won the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in Altman’s 3 Women. That same year, she was also noted for her appearance in Woody Allen’s Annie Hall. However, it was her role as Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining in 1980 that propelled her to international stardom. Her intense performance opposite Jack Nicholson has become iconic, as has the baseball bat scene, recorded 127 times, showcasing the director’s demands and the actress’s dedication.
In 1980, Duvall demonstrated her range by playing Olive Oyl in Altman’s Popeye, alongside Robin Williams. Her career continued with roles in films such as Time Bandits (1981) and Roxanne (1987). In addition to her acting career, she also made a name for herself as a producer with the series Faerie Tale Theater for Showtime, which won several awards.
Unfortunately, Duvall had to retire from the film industry in the mid-1990s due to mental health issues. Her appearance on the Dr. Phil show in 2016 raised public concern about her well-being. After an absence of more than two decades, she briefly returned to the screen in 2023 in the independent film The Forest Hills, expressing her desire to act again.
Upon the announcement of her death, reactions from the film industry were swift. Robert Altman Jr., son of the famous director, praised “a one-of-a-kind actress who lit up every scene she played in.” Director Steven Spielberg remarked, “Shelley had a rare gift for bringing humanity and vulnerability to her characters. She will be greatly missed.”
Shelley Duvall leaves behind an impressive filmography and an indelible mark on the history of cinema.
