Iconic actress Shelley Duvall has passed away at the age of 75, as confirmed by her partner, Dan Gilroy. Duvall, known for her memorable roles in films such as “The Shining,” “Popeye,” and “Nashville,” died in her sleep at her Texas home due to complications related to diabetes. Gilroy, who had been with Duvall since 1989, shared the news with The Hollywood Reporter, expressing his sorrow and relief that she is now free from her recent suffering. “My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us,” he said. “Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley.”
Tributes have been pouring in from fans and celebrities alike, celebrating the life and career of the beloved actress. Actress Riley Keough honored Duvall on Instagram by posting a picture of her with the caption, “legend.” Similarly, Rachel Zegler shared a photo of Duvall with a broken heart emoji, reflecting the collective grief felt by many.
One of Duvall’s most iconic roles was in Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining,” where she played Wendy Torrance. The official X account for Kubrick’s estate released a statement remembering Duvall, acknowledging the rumors of her mistreatment on set but emphasizing her positive reflections on the experience. “Shelley Duvall, legendary character actor, and The Shining’s extraordinary Wendy Torrance has died at the age of 75,” the statement read. “Despite being dogged with exaggerations of her treatment on set, Shelley was always vocal about her experience filming The Shining saying she ‘wouldn’t trade it for anything’ because ‘working with lovable Stanley was a fascinating learning experience.'”
Director Scott Goldberg, who worked with Duvall on her last film, “The Forest Hills,” also paid tribute to her. “Shelley leaves behind an amazing legacy and will be missed by so many people, myself included,” Goldberg told People. “I am proud of her for overcoming adversity to act again and will always be forever grateful for her friendship and kindness.”
Duvall’s career spanned several decades, with a filmography that includes “Brewster McCloud,” “McCabe & Mrs. Miller,” “Thieves Like Us,” “Nashville,” “Buffalo Bill and the Indians, or Sitting Bull’s History Lesson,” “3 Women,” “Annie Hall,” “The Shining,” “Popeye,” “Time Bandits,” “Frankenweenie,” “Roxanne,” “Suburban Commando,” “The Underneath,” “The Portrait of a Lady,” “Countess,” “Changing Habits,” “Twilight of the Ice Nymphs,” “My Teacher Ate My Homework,” “RocketMan,” “Mrs. Randall,” “Tale of the Mummy,” “Casper Meets Wendy,” “Home Fries,” “The 4th Floor,” “Boltneck,” “Dreams in the Attic,” “Manna from Heaven,” and “The Forest Hills.”
Duvall’s life partner, Dan Gilroy, shared more about their relationship, revealing that they met while working on the Disney Channel film “Mother Goose Rock ‘n’ Rhyme.” Gilroy played Gordon Goose, and Duvall portrayed Little Bo Peep. The couple had been together since 1989, and Gilroy’s heartfelt statement to The Hollywood Reporter highlighted the depth of their bond. “My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us,” he said. “Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley.”
Fans have also taken to social media to express their sorrow and admiration for Duvall. One fan wrote, “rest easy and beautifully Shelley Duvall, this is so devastating,” while another tweeted, “we’re literally never going to get another actress like Shelley Duvall.” The outpouring of love and respect for Duvall underscores the impact she had on her audience and the unique place she holds in Hollywood history.
Duvall’s openness about her struggles with mental illness also resonated with many. In a 2016 appearance on “Dr. Phil,” she candidly discussed her mental health challenges, stating that she was “very sick” and “needed help.” This vulnerability endeared her to fans and highlighted her strength in facing personal battles.
Shelley Duvall’s death marks the end of an era for many who grew up watching her on screen. Her distinctive presence and ability to portray eccentric and memorable characters earned her several accolades, including a Cannes Film Festival Award and a Peabody Award. She was also nominated for a British Academy Film Award and two Primetime Emmy Awards.
As the world mourns the loss of Shelley Duvall, her legacy as an actress and a person who touched many lives remains. Her contributions to film and her courage in sharing her personal struggles will continue to inspire and resonate with audiences for years to come.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter, People
