Sally Kirkland, the beloved actress known for her roles in 'Charlie's Angels' and 'The Sting', has passed away at the age of 84. Her death comes as a shock to many, especially given her recent battle with dementia and multiple health crises. Just days before her passing, it was revealed that she had entered a hospice in Palm Springs, a decision made after a year of battling severe health issues.
Kirkland's spokesperson, Michael Greene, confirmed her death, stating that she passed away at 1:50 am PT on November 11. Her passing marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned decades, during which she left an indelible mark on Hollywood. The actress had been diagnosed with dementia for the past year, and her health struggles were further exacerbated by two life-threatening infections she contracted after fracturing multiple bones.
The GoFundMe page set up to support Kirkland's medical expenses revealed the extent of her health battles. In addition to dementia, she faced two separate life-threatening infections, which required extensive hospitalizations and rehabilitation beyond the 100 days typically covered by insurance. The fund also highlighted the financial impact of her career setbacks, noting that she lost a significant portion of her investments during the 2007 market crash, a loss that affected her financial stability.
Born in New York City to Vogue fashion editor Sally Kirkland Sr. and metals dealer Fredric M. Kirkland, Kirkland's career began as a model. She rose to prominence in the fashion industry, becoming the first person to bring Italian fashions to the United States post-war and being photographed by renowned photographers like Irving Penn and Richard Avedon. Her modeling career, however, was not her choice; her mother's influence and her own shyness led her into the spotlight.
Kirkland's passion for acting was ignited by her obsession with Marilyn Monroe. She transitioned into acting, and her talent was soon recognized, earning her an Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe win for her role in 'Anna'. Her versatility and charisma made her a sought-after talent, and she appeared in various films, including '80 For Brady', a star-studded cast featuring Jane Fonda, Sally Field, Rita Morena, and Lily Tomlin.
Despite her passing, Kirkland's legacy in the entertainment industry remains. Her contributions to film and fashion will be remembered, and her impact on the lives of those she worked with and inspired will endure. As we pay tribute to her life and career, we also reflect on the challenges she faced and the strength she displayed in the face of adversity.
