The renowned actress Shelley Duvall, celebrated for her performances in films such as “The Shining,” “Annie Hall,” and “Nashville,” has passed away at 75, as confirmed by her long-term partner Dan Gilroy to the Hollywood Reporter. Complications from diabetes were the cause of her death. Duvall’s health had been deteriorating in recent years, according to Gilroy.
Shelley Alexis Duvall was born on July 7, 1949, in Houston, Texas. She launched her acting career in the early 1970s after being discovered by director Robert Altman. Altman’s “Brewster McCloud” in 1970 marked Duvall’s first significant role. This collaboration initiated a productive relationship with Altman, who cast Duvall in numerous films including “McCabe & Mrs. Miller,” “Thieves Like Us,” and “Nashville.” Her role in Altman’s 1977 drama “3 Women” garnered her the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival and a BAFTA nomination.
Duvall’s role as Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick’s 1980 horror film “The Shining” is one of her most recognized performances. She once reflected on the demanding filming process, revealing that she was required to cry for 12 hours a day for nine consecutive months, for at least five or six days a week.
In the same year, 1980, Duvall portrayed Olive Oyl in Robert Altman’s “Popeye,” starring alongside Robin Williams. Her distinctive physical features, including her large brown eyes and unique charm, set her apart in Hollywood.
Duvall continued to accept a variety of roles throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. She featured in Terry Gilliam’s “Time Bandits” and played a key role in the 1987 romantic comedy “Roxanne” with Steve Martin. Duvall also ventured into production, creating and hosting the children’s television show “Faerie Tale Theatre,” which was well-received during its run.
However, Duvall’s acting opportunities began to decrease by the mid-1990s. Her last significant role was in Jane Campion’s “The Portrait of a Lady” in 1996. After a small part in “Manna from Heaven” in 2002, Duvall retired from acting and generally stayed out of public view. The New York Times reported in April 2024 that an earthquake in 1994, which damaged her Los Angeles, California home, and her brother’s illness contributed to her withdrawal from public life.
In 2016, Duvall appeared on the TV talk show “Dr. Phil” where concerns about her mental health were raised. During the interview, Duvall talked about her health issues, stating, “I’m very sick. I need help.” Gilroy informed the media that she had been dealing with paranoia and delusions at that time.
Duvall returned to acting in 2023 to play a part in the independent horror film “The Forest Hills.” When discussing her return to the screen, Duvall said, “I wanted to act again. And then this guy kept calling, and so I wound up doing it.”
Duvall’s personal life included relationships with artist Bernard Sampson, singer-songwriter Paul Simon, Ringo Starr, and her long-term partner, musician Dan Gilroy, whom she met on the set of the Disney Channel movie “Mother Goose Rock ‘n’ Rhyme” in 1989. Duvall and Gilroy resided together in Blanco, Texas for over 30 years until her passing.
Despite facing various challenges throughout her career, Duvall has left a lasting impression on the film industry. Her work is esteemed for its distinctiveness and emotional depth. Scott Goldberg, the director of “The Forest Hills,” described Duvall as “radiant, very kind and witty,” underlining her enduring allure and skill.
Duvall will be remembered as a unique and gifted actress who brought a singular presence to every role she undertook.
