Shelley Duvall, the iconic actress renowned for her unforgettable role in Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining has died at the age of 75.
The news was confirmed by her longtime partner, Dan Gilroy, who shared that Duvall passed away peacefully in her sleep due to complications from diabetes at her home in Texas.
In a statement to THR, Gilroy said:
“My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us. Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley.”
Duvall’s career in Hollywood spanned several decades, during which she captivated audiences with her distinctive presence and versatile performances.
Born on July 7, 1949, in Fort Worth, Texas, Duvall was discovered by director Robert Altman, who cast her in her debut film, Brewster McCloud in 1970. Her collaboration with Altman proved fruitful, leading to memorable roles in McCabe & Mrs. Miller (1971), Thieves Like Us (1974), Nashville (1975), and 3 Women (1977), for which she won the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival.
However, it was her portrayal of Wendy Torrance in the 1980 horror classic The Shining that cemented her legacy in the annals of cinema history. Duvall’s raw and intense performance, opposite Jack Nicholson’s terrifying Jack Torrance, left an indelible mark on audiences and solidified her place as a prominent figure in the horror genre.
Despite the reported difficulties she faced during the filming process, her performance remains a benchmark of psychological horror.
In addition to her work in film, Duvall was a trailblazer in children’s television. She created, produced, and hosted “Faerie Tale Theatre,” a beloved anthology series that brought classic fairy tales to life with star-studded casts. The show, which aired from 1982 to 1987, was praised for its imaginative storytelling and high production values, earning a devoted following among children and adults alike.
Shelley Duvall is survived by her partner, Dan Gilroy, and a legacy of work that continues to inspire and entertain. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her spirit and talent will live on through the countless performances that have touched the hearts of audiences around the world.