Shelley Duvall, the iconic actress best known for her role in "The Shining," has passed away.
According to Daily Mail, the beloved actress died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Blanco, Texas, due to complications from diabetes, according to her life partner, Dan Gilroy.
Duvall's death concludes a remarkable career that lasted more than 30 years. Born on July 7, 1949, in Fort Worth, Texas, she began her acting career with the 1970 black comedy Brewster McCloud.
However, her role as Wendy Torrance alongside Jack Nicholson in Stanley Kubrick's iconic 1980 horror film "The Shining" stands out as a highlight of her career.
Shelley Duvall's career took off with her role in "Brewster McCloud." She quickly became known for her unique presence and acting style.
In 1977, she starred in the psychological thriller "Three Women," a performance that earned her a Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival. This role established her as a significant talent in Hollywood. Duvall also appeared in other notable films such as "Annie Hall," "McCabe and Mrs. Miller," and "Popeye," further solidifying her place in the industry.
Shelley Duvall founded Think Entertainment in 1988. The company focused on producing children's shows, showcasing Duvall's versatility and creativity. In 1991, she also released an album of Christmas covers, adding another dimension to her artistic endeavors. Despite her successes, Duvall faced personal challenges.
Her Los Angeles home was destroyed in the 1994 Northridge earthquake, which led her to move to Texas. This move marked the beginning of a more reclusive period in her life.
Duvall retired from acting in 2002 after appearing in "Manna from Heaven." She largely retreated from public life, dealing with mental health issues and expressing feelings of being 'hurt' by Hollywood.
Her 2016 appearance on Dr. Phil was widely criticized for exploiting her vulnerabilities. In a New York Times interview, Dan Gilroy, Duvall's life partner since 1989, revealed that the intention was to help her career, but it backfired. Gilroy also mentioned that after moving to Texas, Duvall started becoming afraid of things and avoided work.
Despite her struggles, Shelley Duvall returned to acting in the 2023 film The Forest Hills. Scott Goldberg, the film's director, praised her resilience and talent. Scott Goldberg said:
Shelley leaves behind an amazing legacy and will be missed by so many people, myself included. I am proud of her for overcoming adversity to act again and will always be forever grateful for her friendship and kindness.
Dan Gilroy confirmed her death to The Hollywood Reporter. He expressed his sorrow and admiration for Duvall's strength and character. Gilroy said:
My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us. Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley.
Shelley Duvall's death at age 75 marks the end of a significant chapter in Hollywood history. Her career, spanning over three decades, included iconic roles and groundbreaking performances. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, she remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Her legacy continues to inspire, and her impact will be felt for years. Duvall is survived by her partner, Dan Gilroy, and countless fans who cherish her work.
