Shelley Duvall, the iconic actress known for her haunting performance in “The Shining,” has passed away at 75. Her partner, Dan Gilroy, announced her death, noting her recent struggles and expressing hope that she’s now “free.”
Born in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1949, Duvall’s journey to stardom began unexpectedly. She caught the eye of director Robert Altman at a party in 1970. Altman saw something special in Duvall and invited her to Hollywood, kickstarting her acting career.
Duvall quickly became a favorite of Altman’s, appearing in several of his films. She spoke highly of their working relationship, telling The New York Times in 1977, “He offers me damn good roles. None of them have been alike. He has a great confidence in me, and a trust and respect for me.”
Her talent didn’t go unnoticed. In 1977, Duvall won the best actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in Altman’s “3 Women.”
But it was her role in Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining” that would cement her place in cinema history. Playing the terrified wife of Jack Nicholson’s character, Duvall delivered a performance that still chills viewers today. However, the making of the film was far from easy for the actress.
RIP Shelley Duvall (1949-2024)
The Shining (1980)
Director: Stanley Kubrick pic.twitter.com/13ioHmIQnE— DepressedBergman (@DannyDrinksWine) July 11, 2024
Duvall described her experience on “The Shining” as “unbearable.” Kubrick’s demanding style pushed her to her limits. In one instance, she had to film a scene 127 times before Kubrick was satisfied. The emotional toll was significant, with Duvall recalling, “But after a while, your body rebels. It says: ‘Stop doing this to me. I don’t want to cry every day.'”
Despite these challenges, Duvall’s career continued to flourish. She appeared in films like “Popeye” and “Time Bandits,” and graced television screens in shows like “Saturday Night Live” and “Frasier.”
Robin Williams and Shelley Duval as Popeye and Olive were one of the best things in cinema history.
Critics at the time thought otherwise but it was a great film and Robin and Shelley delivered.
Look at them. They were so perfect in their roles.
Rest in power, Shelley. pic.twitter.com/fDbcZyTqhr
— kori kohi (@dulsineyaaaa) July 11, 2024
By 2000, Duvall had semi-retired from acting, making only occasional appearances. Her final role was in the horror film “The Forest Hills.”
Throughout her life, Duvall faced personal challenges, including health issues and mental health struggles. She openly discussed these difficulties, even appearing on “Dr. Phil” to share her experiences.
Duvall’s personal life was as varied as her career. She was briefly married to Bernard Sampson in the early 1970s and later had relationships with singer Paul Simon and actor Stan Wilson. Her longest partnership was with musician Dan Gilroy, lasting from 1989 until her passing.
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Shelley Duvall’s legacy in film is undeniable. Her unique presence and memorable performances have left an indelible mark on cinema. As we remember her life and career, we celebrate an actress who brought depth, vulnerability, and an unmistakable quality to every role she played.
