Shelley Duvall, a versatile and iconic actress known for her roles in films like “The Shining,” “Annie Hall,” and “Nashville,” has died at the age of 75. The news of her death was confirmed to the Hollywood Reporter by her partner of over 30 years, Dan Gilroy. He noted that she had been in poor health in recent years. She passed away due to complications from diabetes.
Shelley Alexis Duvall was born on July 7, 1949, in Houston, Texas. Her career began in the early 1970s when she was discovered by director Robert Altman. Her first major role was in Altman’s “Brewster McCloud” in 1970. This collaboration marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership with Altman, who cast the actress in several of his films, including “McCabe & Mrs. Miller,” “Thieves Like Us,” and “Nashville.” Her performance in Altman’s 1977 drama “3 Women” earned her the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival and a BAFTA nomination.
Duvall’s portrayal of Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick’s 1980 horror classic “The Shining” remains one of her most memorable roles. Reflecting on the intense filming process, Duvall once said that she had to cry 12 hours a day for nine months straight, at least five or six days a week.
In 1980, Duvall also starred as Olive Oyl opposite Robin Williams in Altman’s adaptation of “Popeye.” Her unique appearance, characterized by her large brown eyes and offbeat charisma, made her a distinctive presence in Hollywood.
Throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, Duvall continued to take on diverse roles. She appeared in Terry Gilliam’s “Time Bandits” and played a significant role in the 1987 romantic comedy “Roxanne” alongside Steve Martin. She also ventured into production, creating and hosting the children’s TV show “Faerie Tale Theatre,” which became a beloved series during its run.
However, by the mid-1990s, Duvall’s acting roles began to dwindle. Her last prominent role was in Jane Campion’s “The Portrait of a Lady” in 1996. Following a minor part in “Manna from Heaven” in 2002, Duvall retired from acting and largely disappeared from the public eye. In an April 2024 article, the New York Times attributed her withdrawal to the impact of a 1994 earthquake that damaged her Los Angeles home and the stress of her brother’s illness.
In 2016, concerns about Duvall’s mental health surfaced when she was a guest on the TV talk show “Dr. Phil.” During the interview, Duvall spoke about her struggles, stating, “I’m very sick. I need help.” Her partner, Dan Gilroy, told the media that she had become paranoid and delusional during that period.
Duvall’s return to acting came in 2023 when she took on a role in the independent horror film “The Forest Hills.” Discussing her comeback, 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 lived together in Blanco, Texas for over three decades until her death.
Despite facing challenges and controversies throughout her career, Duvall left an indelible mark on the film industry. Her work is appreciated for its originality and emotional depth. Director Scott Goldberg, who worked with her on “The Forest Hills,” described Duvall as “radiant, very kind and witty,” highlighting her enduring charm and talent.
Duvall will be remembered as a unique and talented actress who brought a distinctive presence to every role she played.
