Sally Kirkland, Acclaimed Actress, Passes Away at 84

Actress Sally Kirkland passed away on November 11, 2023, at the age of 84. The news of her death was announced shortly after she entered hospice care in Palm Springs. Kirkland’s representative, Michael Greene, confirmed that she had been suffering from dementia for the past year. A GoFundMe page established in her name revealed that she had recently sustained injuries from a fall in the shower, affecting her ribs and foot.

According to Greene, Kirkland took her last breath at 01:50 AM. The GoFundMe page noted that her health benefits were cut during the SAG-AFTRA strike, leaving her in need of medical assistance. At the time of her passing, the fundraising effort had gathered over $60,000 of the $65,000 goal.

Career Highlights and Contributions

Kirkland was born in New York City to fashion editor Sally Kirkland Sr. and metals dealer Fredric M. Kirkland. She rose to fame in 1964 as one of Andy Warhol‘s “13 Most Beautiful Women.” Her groundbreaking performance in the off-Broadway production “Sweet Eros” in 1968 made her the first actress to appear completely nude on stage.

Over her extensive career, Kirkland amassed more than 200 credits in television, film, and theatre. She is perhaps best known for her role in the 1987 dramedy “Anna,” which earned her a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination. Her filmography includes notable appearances in productions such as “Charlie’s Angels,” “JFK,” and “Bruce Almighty.” She shared the screen with legends including Paul Newman and Robert Redford in “The Sting,” and starred alongside Barbra Streisand in “The Way We Were.”

In addition to her film roles, Kirkland’s television credits featured performances in series like “Criminal Minds,” “Roseanne,” and “Valley of the Dolls.”

A Legacy of Mentorship and Influence

Kirkland was also an ordained minister and a dedicated yoga practitioner. She was known for her warm personality and commitment to mentoring aspiring actors, having guided numerous talents including Sandra Bullock and Liza Minnelli.

She is survived by her godson and filmmaker Coty Galloway, three cousins, and many close friends. Kirkland leaves behind a rich legacy of work, cherished by fans around the world.