Shelley Duvall, known for her roles in “The Shining” and “Nashville,” passed away at the age of 75 in Blanco, Texas. The actress succumbed to complications from diabetes, as confirmed by her partner, Dan Gilroy. Duvall leaves behind a remarkable career filled with both triumphs and challenges.
By Julian James
Early Success with Robert Altman
Shelley Duvall’s career took off with the help of director Robert Altman, who cast her in “Brewster McCloud.” She continued to work with Altman in films like “McCabe & Mrs. Miller” and “Thieves Like Us.” Duvall gained significant attention in 1975 with her role in “Nashville.” Her performance in “3 Women” earned her the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival and a BAFTA nomination, establishing her as a versatile actress.
Iconic Role in “The Shining”
Duvall is perhaps best known for her role as Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining.” The production was notoriously demanding, with Kubrick’s exacting standards pushing Duvall to her limits. Some scenes, like the baseball bat sequence, required over 100 takes. Despite the physical and emotional strain, Duvall delivered a memorable performance that secured her place in film history.
Diverse Career Highlights
In addition to “The Shining,” Duvall appeared in other notable films, including Woody Allen’s “Annie Hall” and Altman’s “Popeye.” In the 1980s, she produced children’s anthology series such as “Faerie Tale Theatre” and “Tall Tales & Legends,” which featured directors like Tim Burton and Francis Ford Coppola and stars like Robin Williams and Laura Dern. These projects highlighted Duvall’s creativity and solidified her reputation as a dynamic force in the entertainment industry.
Later Years and Acting Comeback
Duvall retired from acting in 2002 and lived a secluded life in Texas. Her appearance on the Dr. Phil show in 2016 drew attention and criticism for its focus on her mental health struggles. Despite this, she was respected and loved in her Texas community. In 2023, Duvall made a surprising return to the screen in the indie horror film “The Forest Hills,” marking a late-career revival.
Shelley Duvall leaves behind a legacy as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation. Her ability to excel in both dramatic and comedic roles made her a unique and unforgettable presence in Hollywood.
Based on content from www.variety.com