Shelley Duvall passed away on Thursday at her home in Blanco, Texas, as confirmed by her family and longtime partner, Dan Gilroy. The cause of death was complications from diabetes. Duvall was 75 years old.
Shelley Duvall’s Early Career and Breakthrough
Born in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1949, Duvall became a celebrated actress in the 1970s, known for her unique roles. Her acting career began unexpectedly when she met director Robert Altman at a party in Texas. Altman cast her in his film ‘Brewster McCloud,’ where she played Suzanne Davis, the protagonist’s love interest.
Duvall starred in several of Altman’s films, including ‘McCabe & Mrs. Miller’ (1971) and ‘Thieves Like Us’ (1974). She gained fame with her role as Martha in the 1975 film ‘Nashville,’ which focused on the city’s country music scene.
Iconic Roles in Popeye and The Shining
She is best remembered for her iconic roles as Olive in Altman’s ‘Popeye’ and Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick’s ‘The Shining,’ both released in 1980. Duvall continued acting throughout the 1980s but took on fewer roles in the 1990s.
Later Career and Retirement
After starring in the 2002 religious comedy ‘Manna from Heaven,’ Duvall retired from acting, returning for a final role in the 2023 horror film ‘The Forest Hills.’
Shelley Duvall is survived by her partner, Dan Gilroy, and her three brothers, Stewart, Shane, and Scott.