Oscar-Nominated ‘Anna’ Actress Passes Away at 84
Sally Kirkland, the Oscar-nominated actress, has passed away at the age of 84. She died in a hospice in Palm Springs, where she had been receiving care after a series of health issues.
Illness and Final Days
Kirkland’s representative, Michael Greene, confirmed her death occurred at 1:50 AM PT. Reports indicate that she had been struggling with dementia for the past year.
In the prior year, Kirkland experienced multiple falls, resulting in significant injuries, including fractured bones in her neck, wrist, and hip. Additionally, she faced two life-threatening infections.
A GoFundMe page was established to assist with her medical expenses after SAG-AFTRA eliminated supplemental insurance for members over 65 in 2021. This change exacerbated her financial struggles amidst her health battles.
Career Highlights
Sally Kirkland is best remembered for her role in the 1987 indie film, “Anna.” In this film, she portrayed a Czech actress seeking an iconic figure from her homeland in New York City.
This performance earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress and a Golden Globe win. Throughout her career, she appeared in over 250 films and television shows.
Notable Roles
- Charlie’s Angels
- JFK
- Bruce Almighty
- Days of Our Lives
- Valley of the Dolls
Kirkland also made memorable cameos in series including “Kojak,” “Starsky and Hutch,” and the original “Charlie’s Angels.” Her on-screen presence remained less frequent in the 2000s and 2010s, with roles in “The Agency” (2010), “Extinction” (2017), and “Invincible” (2020).
In her final year, she co-starred in “Sallywood,” a project that looked into the relationship between her and director Xaque Gruber. The film exemplified her enduring passion for the craft.
Legacy
Sally Kirkland leaves behind a rich legacy in the entertainment industry. Her contributions to film and television will be remembered by fans and peers alike.
