There’s something about the bright lights of Hollywood that often hides the true stories of the stars we adore.
Behind the glitz and glamour, many of these actors carry personal battles, some of which are only revealed years later. Synonymous with iconic films like The Shining, Shelley Duvall was no stranger to hardship, though her talent and unique presence always seemed to shine through.
Despite her problems, she managed to win a place in the hearts of millions of people with her performances that left a lasting impression on the world. Tragically, the beloved actress, known for both her remarkable acting career and her work on children’s television, has died at the age of 75.
Shelley Duvall, a talented actress renowned for her significant influence on Hollywood, has sadly passed away at the age of 75.
Born on July 7, 1949, in Fort Worth, Texas, Shelley originally aspired to be a scientist and enrolled at South Texas Junior College to pursue that path. However, she also developed a strong passion for food and eventually moved towards the entertainment industry.
Shelley’s move to Hollywood in the mid-1970s marked the beginning of her successful acting career.
In addition to working in film, she founded her own production company, Think Entertainment, which focused on creating innovative children’s programs for cable television. The venture earned her two Emmy Award nominations for her outstanding work.
Throughout her acting career, Shelley has earned critical acclaim and won numerous prestigious awards. She was awarded Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival in 1977 for her role in 3 Women and also received the Los Angeles Film Critics Association (LAFCA) Award for Best Actress in the same year. In 1984, she was honored with a Peabody Award for her work on the TV show Faerie Tale Theatre.
In November 2016, Shelley bravely shared her mental health struggles on Dr. Phil, where she revealed to the host: “I’m very sick. Help me, please.”
However, this vulnerable moment sparked controversy, particularly from Vivian Kubrick, daughter of filmmaker Stanley Kubrick, who criticized the series for exploiting Shelley’s condition.
Shelley died of complications related to diabetes and her partner Dan Gilroy confirmed the news. He shared a heartfelt statement: “My lovely, wonderful, dear life partner and friend has left us. Too much pain lately, but now she’s free. Fly away, pretty Shelley.” She died peacefully in her sleep at their home in Blanco, Texas.
Shelley Duvall’s legacy in the film industry continues to be cherished by her fans. She is best known for her unforgettable performance opposite Jack Nicholson in the 1980 horror classic The Shining. Her other notable films include Popeye (1980) with Robin Williams, Annie Hall (1977), 3 Women (1977), and Nashville (1975).
In her personal life, Shelley was married to artist Bernard Sampson from 1970 to 1974. The couple married while filming Brewster McCloud, but their marriage ended shortly after they moved to Los Angeles. In 1989 Shelley found lasting love with Dan Gilroy and they were together until her death.
Shelley Duvall’s legacy as an actress and producer will continue to inspire and be remembered by her many fans and colleagues in the entertainment industry. Filled with iconic roles and pioneering contributions to children’s television, her remarkable career has left an indelible mark on Hollywood. From her unforgettable performance in The Shining to working behind the scenes with Think Entertainment, Shelley has demonstrated both artistic versatility and a deep passion for her craft. Despite her personal challenges, she remained a beloved figure who touched the hearts of many.
Her passing marks the end of an era, but her influence and the memories she created through her films and shows will live on. Shelley Duvall’s dedication to her work, her compassion for others, and her resilience in the face of adversity will always be fondly remembered. As we reflect on her life, we celebrate the joy and creativity she brought to the world and extend our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones.