Actress Penelope Milford Dies at 77 Following Car Accident Recovery
Penelope Milford, the Oscar-nominated actress known for Heathers and her celebrated Broadway performances, has passed away at 77.
Her death comes just months after a serious car accident, prompting reflection on her final months and the quiet challenges she faced during recovery. While she had been residing in a rehabilitation facility, the specific circumstances surrounding her passing remain private.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Milford died on October 14 at a rehab center in Kingston, New York. Her siblings, Candace Saint and Douglas Milford, confirmed that she had been recuperating following her July accident.
Born in St. Louis, Milford attended New Trier High School in Illinois before moving to New York to study acting at the American Place Theatre. She began her film career in 1970 as an extra in Maidstone, eventually earning acclaim for her stage work in productions such as Lenny and Shenandoah, both off-Broadway and on Broadway.
Milford’s filmography includes roles in Valentino, Coming Home, Endless Love, and the cult favorite Heathers. Her performance in Coming Home earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, cementing her legacy in Hollywood. Beyond acting, she ran a Los Angeles art gallery in the mid-1980s and devoted time to teaching acting. Later, she settled in Saugerties, New York, where she restored a historic home, blending her creative vision with hands-on craftsmanship.
Milford was briefly married to poet Michael Lally and is survived by her brother, sister, and three nieces and nephews. Her career spanned film, theater, and the arts, leaving a lasting impact on audiences, students, and fellow artists alike.
Conclusion
Penelope Milford’s life was defined by creativity, dedication, and resilience. From her award-nominated performances to her contributions in the arts and education, she inspired countless people. Though her passing marks a profound loss, her legacy endures—reminding the world of the timeless influence of talent and passion.