Shelley Duvall, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in “The Shining” and various collaborations with director Robert Altman, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday at her home in Blanco, Texas. Her partner, Dan Gilroy, confirmed that her death was due to complications from diabetes. Duvall was 75 years old.
Born on July 7, 1949, in Fort Worth, Texas, Duvall was discovered by Robert Altman, who cast her in the 1970 film “Brewster McCloud.” This marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership where Duvall showcased her versatile talents in a range of roles, starting with the 1975 film “Nashville” and earning critical acclaim for her performance in “3 Women,” for which she received recognition at Cannes.
Duvall’s career was defined by her collaboration with Altman, whom she credited for offering her diverse and challenging roles. “None of them have been alike,” she told The New York Times in 1977. “He has a great confidence in me, and a trust and respect for me, and he doesn’t put any restrictions on me or intimidate me, and I love him.”
While Duvall starred in numerous films, it was her portrayal of Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick’s 1980 adaptation of Stephen King’s “The Shining” that brought her widespread recognition. Her dedication to the role was famously intense, enduring grueling conditions during filming. She later reflected on the experience, expressing both admiration for Kubrick’s vision and the toll it took on her emotionally.
Beyond her film roles, Duvall made notable appearances in Woody Allen’s “Annie Hall” (1977) and opposite Robin Williams in Altman’s “Popeye” (1980). In the 1980s, she ventured into children’s programming and made her last film appearance in 2023’s “The Forest Hills,” marking a return to acting after a hiatus.
Duvall’s later years were marked by public scrutiny over her mental health and appearance, which she and Gilroy addressed candidly in a 2024 interview with The New York Times. Despite the challenges, Duvall’s legacy as a talented actress endures, continuing to attract new admirers to her body of work.
Dan Gilroy, her partner of many years, shared a heartfelt statement upon her passing: “My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us. Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley.”
Shelley Duvall leaves behind a rich legacy in cinema and television, remembered for her unique talent and contributions to the arts.
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