Oscar-Nominated Actress Sally Kirkland of The Sting and Anna Fame Passes Away at 84
Oscar-nominated actress Sally Kirkland, renowned for her roles in landmark films like “The Sting” and “Anna,” has passed away at the age of 84. Her death occurred on Tuesday morning at a hospice in Palm Springs, as confirmed by her representative, Michael Greene.
Health Struggles and Financial Challenges
Kirkland’s later years were marked by significant health issues. She suffered a serious injury last year, fracturing six bones, which led to two life-threatening infections. Additionally, she had been diagnosed with dementia. These challenges made it difficult for her to manage medical expenses.
In response to her financial needs, friends of Kirkland established a GoFundMe page. This initiative successfully raised over £45,000 (approximately $60,000) to assist with her ongoing treatment costs.
Notable Career Highlights
Sally Kirkland’s career spanned several decades, during which she achieved critical acclaim. Her most celebrated performance was in the 1987 film “Anna,” where she portrayed a Czech film star reshaping her life in America while mentoring a younger actor.
She received a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination for her performance in “Anna,” competing against prominent actresses like Cher in “Moonstruck” and Meryl Streep in “Ironweed.”
Early Life and Education
- Born in New York City.
- Encouraged to model at age five by her mother, a fashion editor.
- Graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in 1961.
Theater and Film Beginnings
Kirkland’s early roles included iconic Shakespearean characters, such as Helena in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and Miranda in “The Tempest.” In 1964, she gained notoriety for her appearance in Andy Warhol’s “13 Most Beautiful Women.”
Activism and Advocacy
Beyond her acting career, Kirkland was known for her activism. She frequently advocated for marginalized communities, including people living with AIDS, the homeless, and prisoners. Her willingness to challenge norms included her infamous nude scenes, often used to draw attention to social issues.
Sally Kirkland leaves behind a lasting legacy through both her film work and her commitment to activism.
